Labour has lost control of Redditch Borough Council following the 2026 local elections, as Reform UK surged to become the second-largest party on the authority. The results left the council with no overall control, reflecting a broader national trend favoring Nigel Farage's party.
Reform UK Dominates Seats
Reform UK secured eight of the nine seats contested in the election, which saw a third of the council up for grabs. The party's strong performance stripped Labour of its majority, reducing it to 13 seats out of 27. The Conservatives now hold four seats, while two independents complete the council makeup.
Labour's sole success came from Gary Slim, who retained his seat in a challenging night for the party. The Greens, meanwhile, lost their only councillor as Reform's appeal drew voters across the political spectrum.
Early Results Signal National Trend
Redditch was one of the first councils to declare its results, offering an early indication of Labour's difficulties under Keir Starmer. The Reform surge in Redditch mirrors similar gains in other areas, including Dudley and Tamworth, suggesting a wider shift in voter sentiment.
The outcome leaves Redditch Borough Council without a single party in control, requiring cross-party cooperation to govern effectively. Labour's loss of control marks a significant setback, as the party had previously held a majority on the council.
