Local elections in Wolverhampton: What you need to know

Voters in Wolverhampton go to the polls on May 7 - where they will choose 21 councillors to serve in 20 wards.

Only a third of the total council seats are to be contested, but the results could see a change in personnel.

It's also possible that the strength of feeling with national politics could affect how people vote locally.

Those who win will serve a term of four years and be responsible for helping to effect positive change in the areas they are elected to serve.

The council has been run by a Labour majority administration since 2011.

Labour has 44 seats on the council, compared the Conservatives' 11.

There are two independent councillors, and two representing Reform UK. One seat is currently vacant.

Labour chose Wolverhampton to launch its local election campaign for a reason. It's seen as relatively safe ground for the party.

But they defend 16 of the 21 seats being contested and could face stiff challenges from Reform UK and the Tories.

These are elections about the unglamorous side of politics, like filling potholes, collecting bins and adult social care.

But inevitably the national mood is also a factor, with issues like the cost of the living looming large.

Whilst they are issues that councils do not have control over, it is likely to put pressure on the ruling Labour group as it tries to defend its overall control of the council.

• 9 April - Close of nominations for people to stand in May's elections
• 20 April - Deadline to register to vote, which can be done online
• 21 April - Deadline to apply for a postal vote, which can also be done online
• 28 April - Deadline to apply for a proxy vote, where you can name someone to vote on your behalf. It is also the deadline to apply for a voter authority certificate if you do not have ID like a driver's licence or passport. You need to show ID at a polling station to be able to vote
• 7 May - Polling stations open at 07:00 BST and close at 22:00. If you are in the queue by 22:00, you will be able to vote - but do not forget your ID

City of Wolverhampton Council say 831 staff have been hired to make sure run polling stations run smoothly and to count the votes.

The count will begin at 10:00 BST on Friday, 8 May and it is anticipated that results will be declared in all wards by 17:00 BST.

• SIMPLE GUIDE: What elections are taking place in May?
• EXPLAINER: What can't you do at a polling station?
• LOOKAHEAD: When is the next general election?
• POSTCODE LOOKUP: Is there an election in your area?

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