Voters across the Isle of Wight and Hampshire will head to the polls in May after the Government confirmed that elections will take place as scheduled.
Elections for the Isle of Wight Council, Hampshire County Council, Southampton City Council and Portsmouth City Council, among others, will go ahead, following formal confirmation issued on 22nd January by the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government.
The announcement, made by Rt Hon Steve Reed OBE MP, brings an end to speculation that planned local government reorganisation could lead to a delay in the vote.
Reed: Cutting through two-tier bureaucracy
Speaking in the House of Commons, Mr Reed described the changes as a landmark moment for local authorities.
He said,
“This is a once-in-a-generation reform that will transform local government for the better.
“Cutting through two-tier bureaucracy means faster decisions on housing, simpler access to services, and more money going to potholes, tackling crime and caring for older people instead of being lost to duplication.
“That’s what residents want, and that’s what reorganisation will achieve.”
Mr Reed added that the decision followed careful consideration of concerns raised during the consultation process.
“I have carefully considered arguments about capacity, reorganisation and democracy.
“I’m grateful to everyone who took the time to express their views.”
Jordan: I will continue to fight hard for our Island
Isle of Wight Council Leader Phil Jordan said,
“With today’s news that elections on the Island will go ahead in May 2026, I am pleased that government have responded positively to my letter to the Minister that called unequivocally for elections to go ahead.
“I fully support the democratic process and understand Islanders must have their say on who represents them through that democratic process.
“I will continue to fight hard for our Island, make our case for fairer funding and make certain our voice and aspirations are heard loudly in Westminster”
“Our elections are vital for us as councillors to continue that work with confidence and support of the community”
Article edit
11.20am 23rd Jan 2026 – PJ comment added
This article is from the BBC’s LDRS (Local Democracy Reporter Service) scheme, which News OnTheWight is taking part in. Some alterations and additions may have been made by OnTheWight. Ed
