Polls Close in 2025 Local Elections Across England; Results Expected Overnight

Polls have officially closed for the 2025 local and mayoral elections across England, including a closely watched parliamentary byelection in Runcorn and Helsby. Initial results are expected to be announced starting around 2am.

This marks the first major electoral test for Labour leader Keir Starmer since the general election, with implications for other political figures including Nigel Farage and Kemi Badenoch. The vote covers 24 councils, six mayoralties, and the pivotal Runcorn and Helsby seat previously held by Labour.

Early mayoral results from North Tyneside and the West of England are expected first. Labour is predicted to retain North Tyneside, while the West of England remains a tight contest between Labour, the Greens, and the Liberal Democrats.

Reform is also optimistic in Greater Lincolnshire, where a newly created mayoralty is up for grabs, and in Doncaster, which Labour hopes to retain.

Most council results are not expected until later Friday, with full outcomes possibly extending into the afternoon. Uncertainty remains high due to fragmented polling, with Reform, Labour, and the Conservatives all polling between 20–25%, while the Lib Dems and Greens follow closely behind.

The Conservatives are anticipated to lose several hundred council seats, largely attributed to their strong 2021 performance during the “vaccine bounce” under Boris Johnson. A poor showing could intensify scrutiny of Badenoch’s leadership, though immediate challenges are unlikely.

Starmer’s Labour could weather modest council losses, but a Reform win in Runcorn and any significant mayoral upsets may trigger political ripples in Downing Street. Meanwhile, the Lib Dems and Greens remain hopeful for gains, despite growing pressure from Reform’s rise.