November 24th, 2025.



Following a direct challenge in the Commons from Lewes MP, James MacCleary, the Housing Secretary, Steve Reed MP, has today confirmed that the East Sussex County Council elections will take place in 2026 as planned.

The commitment comes in the wake of reports that the elections could be postponed for a second year running, despite residents already being denied their vote once this year. 

In the Commons today, MacCleary pressed the Secretary of State for a clear guarantee that the elections would not be delayed again.

The Secretary of State confirmed on the floor of the House that the elections will go ahead, saying, “The government’s intention remains for all elections scheduled for May 2026 to go ahead, including East Sussex County Council.”

Speaking outside the Chamber, James MacCleary, Lib Dem MP for Lewes, Polegate, Seaford, Newhaven and surrounding local villages, said: “Local people were denied their democratic rights once already. With Tory council leaders reportedly trying to delay the elections again, it was vital to get this commitment on the record.

“I’m pleased the Housing Secretary has now confirmed that the 2026 elections will proceed. After years of failures on children’s services, roads and adult social care, residents deserve the chance to choose a better, more competent direction for our county. I will keep pushing to ensure East Sussex gets the strong, accountable leadership it needs.”