The local elections are fast approaching and voters in Manchester will soon be heading to the polls for the biggest set of elections since the 2024 general election.
But who can you vote for, what’s at stake and what’s happening across the city?
Where is Manchester?
Manchester City Council governs the city borough, with 96 councillors representing 32 wards.
The authority covers the urban area of Manchester, stretching from Woodhouse Park in the south to Higher Blackley in the north.
What happened in the last election?
In the 2024 local elections, Labour retained control of Manchester City Council with a commanding majority:
Labour: 87 (=)
Liberal Democrats: 4 (=)
Green Party: 3 (-1)
Workers Party of Britain: 1 (+1)
Independent: 1 (=)
Five of Labour’s councillors were elected under the Labour and Co-operative banner – the same political partnership represented by Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham.
Since then, two by-elections have taken place, both resulting in no change of party control.
In April 2026, Independent Ardwick councillor Amna Abdullatif joined the Green Party.
What are the local issues?
Manchester’s elections are expected to be shaped by the cost of living and ongoing pressures on housing.
A shortage of affordable homes, the growth of houses in multiple occupation (HMOs), and concerns around renters’ rights are likely to be the issues at the forefront of voters’ minds when they head to the polls.
The council’s focus on major regeneration schemes (including developments in Wythenshawe, the refurbishment of Manchester Town Hall, and ongoing changes to Piccadilly Gardens) has also drawn both support and scrutiny from residents.
Who are the ones to watch?
Labour has held a majority on Manchester City Council since 1971 and is widely expected to retain control.
Following the election of Hannah Spencer as MP for Gorton and Denton, it’s likely the Green Party will make substantial gains in Manchester due to their recent momentum locally and their increased representation on the council.
Reform UK is standing candidates in each of Manchester’s wards for the first time.
The party did not field any candidates in Manchester in 2024, having last contested a seat in the 2025 Woodhouse Park by-election.
A full list of candidates can be found on Manchester City Council’s website.
Interesting Facts
Manchester has a population of roughly 590,000.
Almost a quarter (23%) of those living in the borough are aged between 20 and 29, making it the largest single age group in the city.
The city is represented in Parliament by a number of high-profile MPs, including Deputy Leader of the Labour Party, Lucy Powell.
Featured image: Jonny Gios/Unsplash
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