With the 2026 local elections approaching, voters in Saddleworth West and Lees are preparing to choose who will represent them on both Oldham Metropolitan Borough Council and Saddleworth Parish Council. The contest is expected to be a key battleground as parties and independent candidates vie for support in one of the borough's most closely watched wards.

Unlike last year when every seat on Oldham Council was up for election, this year's local elections will see just one councillor elected from each Saddleworth ward. For Saddleworth West and Lees, that means voters will have a single opportunity to shape the political balance on the Borough Council, alongside electing representatives to the Parish Council.

The elections are scheduled to take place on Thursday, 7 May 2026, with polling stations open from 7am to 10pm. Residents who are not yet registered to vote are reminded that they can still do so until the deadline, and postal vote applications should be submitted well in advance. Voter ID will also be required at polling stations, in line with recent changes to electoral law.

While candidate nominations have yet to be formally announced, political parties are already expected to be finalising their selections. In recent years, Saddleworth West and Lees has seen strong competition between the Liberal Democrats, Labour, Conservatives and independents, reflecting the diverse political views within the community. The ward covers the villages of Lees, Springhead and parts of Saddleworth, with local issues such as road safety, green belt protection and council services likely to dominate the campaign.

Alongside the Borough Council seat, voters will also elect representatives to Saddleworth Parish Council. The parish council has responsibility for a range of local matters including community spaces, allotments and street lighting, and plays an important role in representing the area's interests. Candidates for the parish council will also be on the ballot paper, giving residents the chance to shape local governance at both levels.

Previous elections in Saddleworth have shown that every vote can count. In the last round of borough elections, turnout across the three Saddleworth wards varied, with some seeing margins of just a few dozen votes. In Saddleworth West and Lees, the outcome has often been too close to call, and 2026 is expected to be no different. Political parties have already begun leafleting and canvassing across the ward, and community groups are urging residents to make their voices heard.

Oldham Council's electoral services team is gearing up for a busy polling day, with additional staff and resources being deployed to ensure a smooth process. Polling stations will be located at the usual venues across the ward, and all voters are advised to check their polling card for the exact location. Anyone with questions about voter registration or ID requirements can contact the council's elections helpline.

As the May date draws closer, the Saddleworth West and Lees election promises to be a closely fought contest that will help determine the direction of Oldham Council. With one seat on the line, every ballot cast by residents will play a part in shaping the future of their community.