Cannock Chase Could Lose Its Last Chance for District Elections

Cannock Chase District Council Leader Cllr Steve Thornley has formally asked central government to postpone the May 2026 local elections, citing major operational pressures from high service demands, staff shortages, complex projects and the extra workload from Local Government Reorganisation in Staffordshire.

The request follows a letter from the Minister of State for Local Government and Homelessness seeking views on whether deferring the polls would free up capacity for reorganisation preparations. The letter was shared with leaders of the opposition group. In his response, Cllr Thornley confirmed his support for the delay, arguing that it would protect both the democratic process and ensure a smooth transition to the new unitary authority, expected to replace Cannock Chase District Council by 2028.

If approved, there is a good chance residents would not have district elections in 2027 either, meaning they could never get to vote for Cannock Chase District Council again if the 2026 poll is cancelled. Historical precedent in local government reorganisations shows that district-level elections are extremely rarely held in the final stages of transition; usually, the existing district council is not put to the vote at all before abolition.

The proposal has drawn sharp criticism from opposition figures who insist voters must have their say now. Paul Jones, Leader of Reform UK in Cannock Chase, said: “As District Leader for Reform UK, my concern is first and foremost for local residents. People here work hard, pay their council tax, and expect a say in how their area is run. Delaying the 2026 elections would take that voice away at a time when many feel unheard already. Our community deserves stability, openness, and the chance to choose who represents them on schedule. Whatever challenges the council faces internally, they should never come at the expense of democratic participation. Cannock Chase residents deserve better than having their vote pushed back.”

The twelve seats up for grabs include eight held by Labour councillors: Leader Steve Thornley, his wife and Cabinet Member Sue Thornley, Cabinet Members David Williams and Garry Samuels, plus Les Bullock, Diane Todd, Sheila Cartwright and Jean Hill. The remaining seats are two Conservative, one Reform UK and one Green (the Green councillor has resigned, likely triggering a by-election anyway).

Opponents argue the timing protects Labour incumbents from potential losses amid public frustration over council decisions. A Change.org petition opposing the delay has gained hundreds of signatures, claiming it silences residents who want change. Nationally, the Electoral Commission has expressed disappointment over using capacity issues to justify postponing scheduled elections.

The Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities is reviewing the request alongside similar applications from other councils. A decision is expected soon, with significant implications for voter rights and local accountability in the area.