Janine GriffithsVoting across Leeds on Thursday 7 May 2026 brought several changes to the city council makeup, with a range of parties winning seats across different areas. Turnout was just over forty percent of eligible voters.
Labour held firm in many parts of the city, including Burmantofts and Richmond Hill, Gipton and Harehills, Bramley and Stanningley, plus Horsforth, where voters backed incumbents and new candidates aligned with the party’s local priorities. In Roundhay, Labour also gained a seat, winning back representation in a ward that has been closely contested in recent years.
Independent voices remain part of the council’s mix. In Garforth and Swillington, Mark Dobson the sitting councillor from the local independents group retained their seat with steady support from residents.
For residents of East Leeds, the 2026 city council election results bring a broader range of voices and perspectives. With representation from Labour, Green, Reform UK, Conservative, Liberal Democrat, and independent councillors, the new council reflects a wide set of local priorities and political views.
Reform UK also saw success beyond Ardsley and Robin Hood, winning seats in Cross Gates and Whinmoor, Farnley and Wortley, and Killingbeck and Seacroft. These results reflect shifting patterns of support in parts of the city.
Across the city, long-serving councillors were re-elected in some wards, while others saw fresh faces elected under new banners. In Ardsley and Robin Hood, a seat changed hands as the Reform UK candidate won, marking a shift in that area’s representation.
The Green Party made gains in several parts of Leeds, capturing seats in Armley, Beeston and Holbeck, Headingley and Hyde Park, Kirkstall, and Little London and Woodhouse. These wins show continued growth in support for Green candidates in neighbourhoods with active community campaigning.
Conservative candidates held seats in several areas across the outer parts of the city, including Adel and Wharfedale, Alwoodley, Harewood, and Pudsey, where voters opted to maintain continuity in local representation.
The Liberal Democrats maintained their presence in areas such as Otley and Yeadon and Rothwell, holding seats that reflect ongoing local backing for their candidates.
In Morley North and Morley South a mix of elected councillors from reformist and independent backgrounds further diversifies the council’s composition.
Labour lost overall control of Leeds City Council as they were just shy of the 50 seats needed to retain control over the council.
Talks on possible next steps, including a Labour-led minority administration or a coalition between the parties, are expected to take place ahead of the next council meeting on May 20.
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