Local elections are taking place in Brighton & Hove on Thursday 2 May 2019 to elect 54 ward councillors who will work together to set the council’s vision, direction and budget.
Brighton & Hove is divided into 21 areas called wards, each represented by two or three councillors depending on the number of people living in them. Residents vote to elect the councillors they want to represent their ward.
Most adults who live in the city, including EU and Commonwealth citizens, are eligible to vote in a local election, but you must be registered by Friday 12 April.
Who is eligible to vote in local elections?
You can vote in the Brighton & Hove City Council elections if you are:
- registered to vote
- a resident in Brighton & Hove
- 18 or over on 2 May (although you can register from 16)
- a UK, Irish, Commonwealth or European Union citizen
Local elections are different from general elections
Eligibility for voting in local elections is different to a UK Parliamentary election.
For example, European Union citizens who live in the city and students who are also registered at another address can vote - so double check on the Your Vote Matters website if you are not sure.
It only takes five minutes to register
To vote in any election you must first be registered. If you are not already registered to vote, you can register online on GOV.UK.
Follow the prompts to give your name, address, date of birth and a few other details. You will need your National Insurance Number which can be found on your payslip or letters about benefits or tax.
How do I know if I am registered?
If you've previously voted in an election and you haven't moved house or changed your details you're probably still registered to vote.
A form was sent to residents in February showing the electoral information we have for your household. If the information on that was correct, or you followed the steps to change the details, you will be registered.
If you are not sure, contact the electoral services team to find out.
Standing as a candidate
By becoming a local councillor you can become a decision maker for your local area and voice for residents in the city.
Nominations for candidates open on Monday 25 March and must be submitted by the 3 April.
Potential candidates and agents can find out more about the election process, the council and being a councillor at an information session on:
- Friday 22 March, 10am to 12 noon, Brighton Town Hall Council Chamber
Find out more
For more information about the upcoming local election, how to register to vote, applying for a postal or proxy vote, or how to stand as a candidate, please go to the elections pages on our website.
