Get ready for the local elections this May

18 February 2025

Residents across West Northamptonshire are being urged to get ready for the upcoming local elections on Thursday, 1 May.

Voters will go to the polls to elect West Northamptonshire Council’s councillors in the unitary authority’s second election since its creation in 2021. This year’s Polling Day on 1 May will see changes to voter arrangements after a recent electoral review reduced the number of unitary councillors to be elected from 93 to 76 and redrew the ward boundaries across the area.

Town and parish council elections are also set to be held in some areas of West Northamptonshire on 1 May, with further information on these to be provided in the coming weeks.

Whether voting in person at a polling station, by post or by proxy (on someone’s behalf), there are some key deadlines to be aware of. If you haven’t registered to vote yet, the deadline to do so is Friday, 11 April. It’s a quick and easy process that takes just five minutes online at gov.uk/register-to-vote. If you’ve recently moved home or changed your name, you may need to update your details to ensure you can take part.

For those who prefer to vote by post, applications need to be submitted by 5pm on Monday, 14 April. Voting by post is a great option if you’ll be away on election day or if you’d rather not visit a polling station in person. Your postal vote will be sent to you in advance, so you can fill it in and return it at your convenience.  If you’d like someone to vote on your behalf, known as a proxy vote, the deadline to apply is 5pm on Wednesday, 23 April.  

One of the biggest changes recently introduced is the requirement for photo ID when voting in person. If you don’t have an accepted form of ID, such as a passport or driving licence, you can apply for a free Voter Authority Certificate. The deadline for this is 5pm on Wednesday, 23 April. Without the correct ID, you won’t be able to vote at your polling station, so make sure you’re prepared.

"These elections are about your community, your family, and your future. The decisions made by your local councillors affect the schools your children go to, the roads you drive on, the parks you enjoy, and the services that support you and your loved ones.

“I know life is busy, and it’s easy to think one vote won’t make a difference—but it absolutely does. Every single vote helps shape the place we call home. If you’ve never voted before, or if you’ve moved recently, now is the time to check that you’re registered and ready to take part.

“Voting is simple, and there are options to make it easier for everyone—whether that’s voting by post, asking someone to vote on your behalf, or heading to your polling station on the day. Don’t leave it too late—get ready now so your voice is heard on 1 May. This is your community, your future—make it count.” 

Anna Earnshaw, Returning Officer for West Northamptonshire

For more information, visit Local Elections 2025.