Reform UK takes control of Lancashire County Council

Reform UK has taken control of Lancashire County Council after the results have been announced for the election held on 1 May 2025. 

At county hall, Reform will have 53 councillors, Conservatives eight, Independent seven, Labour five, Liberal Democrats five, Green Party four and our West Lancashire two.  

Council leader Philippa Williamson was one of the highest profile casualties in Lancaster Rural North ward losing by 29 votes to Graham John Dalton.

Cabinet member for children and families, Cosima Townley, lost out to Reform's Mark Poulton in Burnley Rural by 952 votes.

Jayne Rear, cabinet member for education and skills finished in third spot in Leyland South losing to Reform’s Ellie Close who received 1,459 votes.

Following the announcement of the results, Mark Wynn, chief executive of Lancashire County Council, said: "I would like to say thank-you to everyone who helped to make sure the election process ran smoothly in the county. 

"A lot of hard work went on behind the scenes to ensure people were aware that the elections were taking place. 

"I would particularly like to thank everyone who staffed the polling stations throughout Thursday, as well as today's vote counters who have worked diligently so I could quickly and accurately announce the results.

"Congratulations to all new councillors."