Political Newcomer Steve Hancock to Contest Key Dudley Council Seat
Conservative candidate Steve Hancock, a newcomer to local politics, is set to fight in the hotly-contested Wollaston and Stourbridge Town ward during the Dudley Council elections on May 7, 2026. The ward is expected to be a focal point for campaigners, as two of its three council seats will be up for grabs following the decision of Councillor Cat Eccles MP to stand down.
Campaign Themes of Hope and Respect
Mr Hancock, a former maths teacher, has emphasized that hope and respect are central themes of his campaign. He believes that galvanizing community activists to undertake projects, such as cleaning up graffiti, can restore optimism for residents who have lost faith. "That links in with respect," he explained. "Our built environment is being vandalised. If it is treated with disrespect, that starts to affect people's mood and their perception of what is acceptable in the local area."
Political Background and Priorities
While acknowledging some mistakes, Mr Hancock praised the Conservatives in government for what he called 'big wins in education'. He is also passionate about addressing addiction and homelessness issues in Stourbridge. "People in Stourbridge are very generous and want to help, but sometimes giving money can be harmful if it is used for drugs," he stated. He advocates for a public awareness campaign to inform residents about available food and accommodation services, so they can support those in need without providing cash.
Election Context and Historical Results
The Wollaston and Stourbridge Town ward has been unpredictable in past elections. In 2024, Labour won all three seats, although Councillor Andrew Tromans later defected to the Liberal Democrats. The 2024 election was an 'all out' ballot for all 72 council seats, whereas the 2026 election will see a third of seats contested, along with any vacancies. This makes the upcoming vote particularly significant for shaping the council's future composition.
