Walsall residents will head to the polls on Thursday 7 May 2026, as candidates for this year’s Local Elections are officially confirmed.
A total of 282 people are standing across the borough, with voters able to find full candidate details on Walsall Council’s website.
This election will look a little different from usual. All 60 council seats are being contested at once following changes to ward boundaries introduced after a review by the Local Government Boundary Commission for England (LGBCE). In some areas, ward names have also changed.
Because of these updates, every seat must be decided in a single election to ensure councillors represent the newly drawn wards. From next year, the borough will return to its usual system of electing councillors in stages.
Each of Walsall’s 20 wards will continue to be represented by three councillors. On polling day, residents can vote for up to three candidates. Those elected will serve staggered terms, with the highest-polling candidate serving four years, the second two years, and the third one year, helping re-establish the normal election cycle.
Emma Bennett, Returning Officer and Chief Executive at Walsall Council, said:
“ This year, we’ve seen 282 candidates put themselves forward for Walsall’s Local Elections. With updated ward boundaries, some polling stations moving, and voters able to choose up to three candidates, the 2026 elections may feel different for many residents.
“I’d encourage everyone who is eligible to make sure they’re registered to vote. It takes just a few minutes, but it means you can have your say on the decisions that affect your community. If you’ve recently turned 18 or moved home, please check your details now so you’re ready to vote on Thursday 7 May. “
Important dates to remember
Residents planning to vote should be aware of the following deadlines:
- Register to vote by midnight on Monday 20 April 2026
- Apply for a postal vote by 5pm on Tuesday 21 April 2026
- Apply for a proxy vote by 5pm on Tuesday 28 April 2026
- Apply for a free voter ID certificate by 5pm on Tuesday 28 April 2026
Polling stations will be open from 7am to 10pm on Thursday 7 May, with votes counted and results announced the following day.
For the latest updates, residents can check the council’s social media channels or visit the official government website for guidance on voting.