Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells residents prepare to vote in local elections

Residents of two Kent towns will go to the polls in May, with 88 seats in two local councils up for re-election.

With a general election expected in the second half of 2024, the local vote is being seen as a crucial test for the government.

Voting takes place on 2 May, with the count taking place throughout the day on 3 May.

Anyone planning to vote in person at a polling station must bring an approved form of photo ID.

Every seat on Maidstone Borough Council is up for re-election, the authority's first all-out election.

Previously, members had been elected a third at a time.

Boundary changes have also reduced the number of seats from 55 to 49.

Going into the vote the Conservatives were the largest single party, with 25 seats, but no overall majority, with the Liberal Democrats holding 12, the Green Alliance and Independent Group six each, Labour four and the Fant and Oakwood Independents two each.

A full list of candidates standing in Maidstone can be found here, external.

Tunbridge Wells is also facing a full election with a reduced number of seats due to boundary changes.

On 2 May, 39 seats will be contested, with the authority previously having 48 members.

It is also a council with no party in overall control, with the Liberal Democrats holding 17 of the existing seats, the Conservatives 11, local group the Tunbridge Wells Alliance 10, and Labour seven.

Independent councillors hold two seats, and an Independent for Tunbridge Wells councillor holds one.

A full list of candidates standing in Tunbridge Wells can be found here, external.

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