The Rise of Reform and Implications for Site Promotion…..
Overview
There are 21 county councils in England, all of which typically hold whole-council elections on a four-year cycle. The 2025 election cycle is expected to be pivotal. However, elections in 7 county councils have been postponed to 2026 due to local government reorganisation.
County Councils:
- Norfolk
- Suffolk
- Essex
- Surrey
- East Sussex
- West Sussex
- Hampshire
Additional Authorities:
- Isle of Wight
- Thurrock
Local Government Areas Currently Controlled by the Reform Party
County Councils:
- Derbyshire
- Kent
- Lancashire
- Lincolnshire
- Nottinghamshire
- Staffordshire
Metropolitan Borough:
- Doncaster
Unitary Authorities:
- County Durham
- North Northamptonshire
- West Northamptonshire
Combined Authority Mayors:
- Greater Lincolnshire
- Hull & East Humberside
Planning Implications & Strategic Considerations
With the Reform Party well known for its opposition to new housing development, its growing influence over local authorities presents significant implications for planning professionals, developers, and land promoters:
- Decision-making in Reform-controlled authorities may shift toward more restrictive or populist planning policies.
- Sites located in current or likely Reform-leaning areas may face added complexity in securing approvals.
- Strategic land planning and promotion will require heightened sensitivity to local political dynamics.
- Monitoring upcoming 2026 elections is essential to anticipate changes in planning environments.
Recommendations for Stakeholders
- Review current land holdings and proposals in Reform or Reform-leaning authorities.
- Adjust planning strategies to reflect potential shifts in housing and development policy.
- Engage early with local political and planning stakeholders to gauge sentiment.
- Prepare alternative promotion and appeal strategies in potentially hostile planning contexts.
- Track political developments ahead of the 2026 local elections to anticipate further changes.
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