What is the election for?

On 7 May 2026 there will be an election for all 21 council wards in the Wakefield district.
 
For the first time in over 20 years, all council seats are included in the election. Three councillors are to be elected for each ward. You might see this election called a ‘whole council’ or ‘all-out’ election.
 
A poll card will be sent to everyone who is registered to vote in the election in mid-March 2026.
 
Voters in the election will receive a ballot paper. All the candidates are listed in alphabetical order by surname. Voters will be able to vote for no more than three of those candidates.
 
In a whole council election, the three candidates who receive the most votes are elected. Those candidates are elected for different terms:

• 1st place – 4 years
• 2nd place – 2 years
• 3rd place – 1 year

From 2027 onwards, the district elections will be for one councillor for each ward.