The Order revoked the previous Statutory Instrument (S.I. 2026/96) that had postponed local government elections in 30 English councils from May 2026 to May 2027, meaning those elections proceed as originally scheduled.

This Statutory Instrument, made by the Secretary of State exercising powers under the Local Government Act 2000, revokes the Local Authorities (Changes to Years of Ordinary Elections) (England) Order 2026, which had previously postponed local government elections in 30 councils from May 2026 until May 2027, thereby mandating that those local elections now proceed in May 2026.

The 2025 regulations amended the 2011 and 2012 regulations concerning local authority referendums and mayoral elections in England, adjusting the timelines for referendums and subsequent mayoral elections.

These regulations amend existing legislation governing local authority referendums and mayoral elections in England.

The key changes postpone referendums and subsequent mayoral elections, if the petition or resolution falls between July 16, 2025, and the day before the 2026 ordinary election, until after the 2026 election, ensuring better alignment with regular election cycles.

This aims to enhance efficiency, reduce conflict, and possibly increase voter turnout.

The 2025 Order postponed local council elections for nine English councils from 2025 to 2026, adjusted councillor terms, and modified casual vacancy procedures.

This Order shifts the ordinary elections for councillors in nine specified English local authorities from 2025 to 2026.

It adjusts councillor retirement dates accordingly, modifies procedures for filling casual vacancies, and makes consequential amendments to other related electoral Orders.

The changes primarily impact the timing of local elections and the terms of office for elected councillors, with provisions to manage casual vacancies during the transition.