Reform UK surges as Labour and Conservatives lose ground in early 2026 English local results

Reform UK made a dramatic breakthrough in early local election returns, as Labour suffered heavy losses and the Conservatives also fell back, with results in from 65 of 136 English councils and counting still under way. Labour has shed 394 councillors and lost control of 11 councils so far.

The Conservatives have lost 267 councillors and three councils. By contrast, the Liberal Democrats are recording modest gains, adding 29 councillors and taking control of one additional council. The Greens are also making incremental progress, up 66 councillors.

The standout shift is Reform UK’s surge. The party has gained 583 councillors, taking its total to 585, and has taken control of four councils, having previously held none. Control of many authorities remains unsettled. Thirty-four councils are currently under no overall control, up nine on previous results.

Mayoral results across five areas — including Tower Hamlets, Newham and Croydon — are yet to declare, though the Greens have won Hackney. Further declarations from the remaining councils and mayoralties are expected as counting continues, which will clarify the overall balance of power across England’s local authorities.