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Evening Standard
Evening Standard
National
Megan Howe

Local elections 2026: How to check your nearest polling station

Millions of people across England are heading to polling stations today to cast their votes in the local elections.

Local elections are running in all 32 London boroughs this year, with a total of 1,817 councillors set to be elected.

In Croydon, Hackney, Lewisham, Newham and Tower Hamlets, voters will also directly elect their mayor.

YouGov polling suggests this could be a “seismic” year for London’s local political landscape, with the Green Party challenging in inner London (such as Hackney and Islington) and potentially coming first in as many as eight councils.

While London is not typically a strong area for Reform UK, the party could take the lead in places like Havering and Barking and Dagenham.

For Labour, YouGov polling places the party in first position on seven councils at its lowest estimate, while the highest estimate has it topping the poll in 19 boroughs.

All 32 London boroughs will be up for election, with a total of 1,817 councillors set to be elected (PA Wire)

The Conservatives and the Liberal Democrats are expected to retain most of their existing support, while Independents and other parties look set to make gains, particularly in east London.

How to check your nearest polling station

You can find your assigned polling station by entering your postcode into one of these official tools:

Electoral Commission – Elections in your area Enter your postcode to see your polling station, local candidates, and whether you need photo ID.

Where Do I Vote? A dedicated tool that allows you to find your polling station by postcode.

Most local councils also provide their own maps and polling station finders, such as those for Newham, Redbridge and Camden.

You should also have received a polling card a few weeks before the election detailing your nearest station.

It is important to note you must vote at your assigned polling station; you cannot use a different one, such as near your workplace or college.

Do you need your polling card to vote?

You do not need to bring this card with you to vote, but it remains the most reliable record of where you are registered to cast your ballot.

You will need to bring photo ID to vote in person at a polling station. This can be out of date, as long as the photo still resembles you.

What time do polling stations close?

Polling stations are open from 7am until 10pm. As long as you are in the queue by 10pm, you will still be allowed to vote.

For more information, visit the electoral commission.

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