POLLING stations across the country have thrown open the doors as the UK sees its biggest round of elections since 2024.
Residents in over 130 councils around England are set to cast their votes, with representatives seeking election to around 5,000 seats nationally.
Here in Reading, 17 seats are up for re-election, with an additional by-election taking place in Caversham Heights–representing over one-third of councillors in Reading.
This is because one seat in each of the 16 wards is up for re-election, as well as a second seat in Caversham Heights following the stepping down of Labour councillor Sam Juthani.
Polls opened at 7am, and will remain open until 10pm.
Votes are counted overnight, with the results expected to be announced in the early hours of tomorrow morning (Friday, May 8).
Voters are reminded that they need to bring a form of ID with them to vote in person, which can include a passport, a driving license, and older or disabled person’s bus passes.
The Labour Party currently holds majority in Reading Borough Council, with 32 councillors of the 48 total.
The Green Party stands as the largest opposition, with eight seats, followed by the Conservatives and the Liberal Democrats, with three seats each.
There is also a single Reform councillor, following former Conservative Cllr Clarence Mitchell back in January.
Reading’s only independent councillor, Sarah Hacker, announced that she would not be standing in this election.
Reading Today will be bringing you full coverage of the election results as they happen.
