URL: https://uttlesford.moderngov.co.uk/ieDecisionDetails.aspx?ID=821

Decision Maker: Leader of the Council

Outcome:

Is Key Decision?: No

Is Callable In?: Yes

Purpose: To respond to the letter from the Minister of State for Local Government and Homelessness regarding the proposal to postpone May 2026 elections.

Content: RESOLVED to respond to the letter from the Minister of State for Local Government and Homelessness regarding the postponement of elections in May 2026, as per the letter appended. The Minister of State for Local Government and Homelessness has invited responses from Council Leaders on the potential postponement of local elections scheduled to take place in the Essex area in May 2026.     The Council strongly opposes any further delay to local elections on the basis that this would represent weakening the Democratic Mandate, further delay the implementation of new electoral boundaries leaving residents in Uttlesford under represented at the county level, and that the Council is confident in the capability of its officers to deliver upcoming elections alongside Local Government Reorganisation.      The Secretary of State has adopted a locally-led approach and advises that a decision will be delivered as soon as possible. 

Date of Decision: January 7, 2026