Story perspectives

Oldham Council deadlock after May 2026 election stalemate

8/22/2026

Summary

Story summary

Oldham Council has no leader after the May 2026 election produced no overall majority.
Labour lost eight seats while Reform UK gained seven in that election.
Councillors held an extraordinary meeting Thursday evening to address the stalemate.
The chief executive is advising the national government of the deadlock.
The monitoring officer will write to the Secretary of State, prompting possible appointment of government commissioners if deadlock persists.

1 of 1

Story summary

Oldham Council has no leader after the May 2026 election produced no overall majority.
Labour lost eight seats while Reform UK gained seven in that election.
Councillors held an extraordinary meeting Thursday evening to address the stalemate.
The chief executive is advising the national government of the deadlock.
The monitoring officer will write to the Secretary of State, prompting possible appointment of government commissioners if deadlock persists.