Statement from Leader and Deputy Leader of Welwyn Hatfield Borough Council on May 2026 Local Elections
Statement from Councillor Max Holloway, Leader of Welwyn Hatfield Borough Council and Councillor Jane Quinton, Deputy Leader of Welwyn Hatfield Borough Council.
On 18 December, Alison McGovern MP, the Minister of State for Local Government and Homelessness, wrote to the 63 councils in Local Government Reorganisation areas, including Welwyn Hatfield Borough Council, regarding the possible postponement of the May 2026 Local Elections in those areas.
In her letter, the Minister of State is seeking the views of Councils regarding their local capacity to deliver Local Government Reorganisation alongside elections. Depending on responses, the Secretary of State may then make an Order to postpone this year’s elections.
As a Joint Administration, we feel it is right for all Members to debate this important matter. We have therefore decided to hold a Special Council meeting on 15 January when Members will have an opportunity to discuss the contents of the Secretary of State’s letter. The views of Special Council will then be considered by a Special Cabinet meeting on the same evening before we submit our views to the Minister of State.
Councillor Max Holloway,
Leader of Welwyn Hatfield Borough Council
Councillor Jane Quinton,
Deputy Leader of Welwyn Hatfield Borough Council