Elections focus: The North West: Labour’s fight on two fronts.

What’s happening? 

In the North West, 33 councils will hold local elections, including the major metropolitan boroughs of Liverpool and Manchester, as well as most of the region’s unitary authorities. 

Labour has long held a strong grip on the urban centres across the region, but this year’s elections come at a difficult moment for the party. 

The political landscape shifted dramatically last week with Green victory in the Gorton and Denton by-election. It was the party's first Westminster win in the north, a clear sign that progressive voters are willing to look beyond Labour – and a setback for Reform UK. 

This breakthrough gives the Greens a new level of credibility across the region, particularly in areas with high numbers of students, and wards where younger people predominantly rent rather than own their home. 

This means Labour is now fighting on two fronts in the North West, with the Greens the main threat in urban areas and Reform UK posing a challenge in towns and suburbs. 

The key issues 

• Transport – councils will be expected to align themselves with infrastructure ambitions such as the proposed Liverpool to Manchester rail connection. Everyday concerns such as potholes also remain at the front of voters’ minds.
• Major regeneration schemes such as Liverpool Waters and in Preston city centre are likely to make economic renewal a defining issue. Voters will be considering whether these projects will genuinely benefit local communities and if they are getting a fair share of the growth.
• Environmental concerns often drive ward‑level swings in the North West. Issues such as fly tipping, air quality, and flood resilience will feature. 

Races to watch 

Stockport Council is a key contest with a third of the seats up for election. The borough has a long history of competitive, multi party politics and has spent many years in no overall control, with power shifting between Labour, the Liberal Democrats, and smaller independent groups. The Lib Dems currently lead a minority administration and will be hoping they can secure full control. 

Merseyside’s Sefton Council is also shaping up to be a significant battleground. Although historically Labour‑led, it contains pockets of strong opposition. With all 66 seats up for election, there is potential for some change, with both Reform and the Liberal Democrats predicted to win seats. 

Zoom out 

Labour’s longstanding dominance in the North West is no longer guaranteed. 

May's elections take place against an unusually turbulent backdrop – preceded by the Green Party’s recent breakthrough and a public rift between Greater Manchester mayor Andy Burnham and Number 10. Given expectations that Labour will suffer substantial losses across England, the North West is a key region to watch for signs of whether the party can hold on to its base.