Reform UK has seized control of Newcastle-under-Lyme Borough Council, marking a significant milestone for the party. The group captured 27 seats, while Conservatives held onto 15 and Labour secured two.
Newcastle-under-Lyme Breakthrough
Martin Rogerson, newly elected for Talke and Butt Lane, emphasized the responsibility ahead: “We’ve come out on top but we’ve got a job to do—we’ll do the best for the people who elected us.”
Conservative group leader Simon Tagg retained the Westlands seat, and Labour group leader Dave Jones held Keele. Jones described the results as “humbling” for his party.
The borough, once a Labour stronghold in the ‘red wall,’ saw Conservatives lead the council since 2018 and gain a majority in 2022. Full results continue to be finalized.
Tamworth Sweeps and Electoral Breach
Reform UK won all nine seats contested in Tamworth’s local election. Labour remains the largest party overall after losing its sole defended seat. Reform’s deputy leader Richard Tice expressed delight: voters turned out to “repaint the red wall, the turquoise wall.”
The council operates on a thirds system. Reform now holds 10 seats total, including a prior by-election win in Spital, alongside Labour’s 14, one Green, three Conservatives, and two independents.
Victory overshadowed by a social media post revealing results prematurely—a breach of electoral law. Returning officer Stephen Gabriel confirmed: “We took immediate action… reported to Staffordshire Police.”
Tice acknowledged the issue: voters see Reform as “real people, in the real world.” He added, “No-one’s complacent, no-one’s perfect, we never stop learning.”
Paul Turner, a Reform candidate with prior independent and Conservative experience, pledged focus: “No silly antics, we won’t be playing party politics… we will deliver for Tamworth.” A Wilnecote by-election follows due to a candidate’s death.
Cannock Chase Contest
Counting begins soon in Cannock Chase, a traditional Labour area where the party held 18 of 36 seats pre-election. Twelve seats are up, potentially shifting power.
Reform dominated Cannock’s 2025 county divisions and aims to expand. Greens seek gains in wards like Norton Canes, Hednesford, and Brereton.
