Hampshire County elections are set to proceed in May 2026, as confirmed by the Government’s stance that elections “must go ahead” unless there is “strong justification otherwise.” This announcement follows the postponement of the May 2025 elections, which was requested by the Conservative administration of Hampshire County Council to facilitate a fast-track devolution process. The request was approved by the Labour Secretary of State.
In a statement, County Councillor Andy Tree expressed optimism regarding the upcoming elections, interpreting the Government’s response from the Ministry of Housing, Communities, and Local Government as a clear indication that the elections will take place as scheduled. The last county election occurred in 2021, and the cancellation of the 2025 elections raised concerns about the democratic process.
Cllr Tree emphasized the importance of allowing residents to vote for their county councillors, especially after the 2025 elections were cancelled. He remarked, “It is critical for democracy that residents are respected and allowed to vote for a county councillor.” He also noted that Hampshire County Council is not expected to be abolished until April 2028, warning that cancelling the 2026 election would extend councillors’ terms significantly.
In a letter addressed to Housing Secretary Steve Reed, Cllr Tree highlighted his opposition to the postponement of the 2025 elections, stating, “I voted AGAINST postponing the May 2025 local elections.” He argued that the acceptance of fast-track devolution should not hinge on delaying the elections, insisting that democracy must remain paramount.
Concerns have emerged regarding speculation that the postponed 2026 elections might also be cancelled. Cllr Tree referred to remarks made by the Prime Minister during a parliamentary session on October 22, where the Prime Minister did not reassure that the elections would proceed as planned. Cllr Tree stressed that the expected continuation of Hampshire County Council until 2028 makes postponing the election unjustifiable.
He also pointed out that the May 2026 elections may coincide with the inaugural Hampshire and Solent mayoral election. “It is frankly unacceptable to even contemplate not having the May 2026 election,” he stated, highlighting the potential cost-effectiveness of conducting both elections concurrently.
Cllr Tree reiterated his commitment to democratic values, stating, “I would only ever want to hold office through an election.” He emphasised that the electorate’s trust and choice are paramount, not just the continuation of his term as a councillor. He first won the Whitehill, Bordon, and Lindford seat in 2021 and aims to defend it in the upcoming elections.
He expressed confidence in his track record of service in the area, stating, “I hope my relentless work in Whitehill, Bordon, and Lindford and achieving results locally would result in me being re-elected.” Cllr Tree concluded by expressing the necessity for voters across Hampshire to have the opportunity to choose their representatives.
The Government’s response reinforces the expectation that all local elections will proceed unless compelling reasons arise to justify their cancellation. This announcement occurs within the context of planned local government reorganisation in Hampshire, which is expected to transition existing councils to new unitary authorities by 2028.
