Local election in Wolverhampton: What you need to know
BBCVoters in Wolverhampton go to the polls on 7 May - where they will choose 21 councillors to serve in 20 wards.
Only a third of the 60 seats on City of Wolverhampton Council are to be contested, but the results could see a change in personnel.
It is also possible that the strength of feeling with national politics could affect how people vote locally.
Those who win will serve a term of four years and be responsible for helping to effect positive change in the areas they are elected to serve.
What is the current political makeup?
The council has been run by a Labour majority administration since 2011.
Labour has 44 seats on the council, compared to the Conservatives' 11.
There are two independent councillors, and two representing Reform UK. One seat is currently vacant.
The council is a metropolitan borough, a type of unitary authority which runs all council services in its area. This differs from some places which have currently have county and district councils.
What is this election about?
Labour chose Wolverhampton to launch its local election campaign for a reason. It's seen as relatively safe ground for the party.
But they defend 16 of the 21 seats being contested and could face stiff challenges from Reform UK and the Tories.
These are elections about the unglamorous side of politics, like filling potholes, collecting bins and adult social care.
But inevitably the national mood is also a factor, with issues like the cost of living looming large.
Whilst they are issues that councils do not have control over, it is likely to put pressure on the ruling Labour group as it tries to defend its overall control of the council.
How do I cast my vote?
You can vote
- in person at your local polling station on election day between 07:00 and 22:00
- by postal vote
- by nominating someone to vote on your behalf - a proxy
What was the deadline for registering to vote?
To vote on 7 May, you needed to be on the electoral register by 23:59 BST on Monday 20 April.
The deadline has also passed to request a postal vote, which was 17:00 on Tuesday 21 April.
However there is still time to apply for a proxy vote. If you are already registered to vote, the deadline is 17:00 on Tuesday 28 April.
You must be 18 to vote in the local elections in England.
When will we know who has won?
City of Wolverhampton Council says 831 staff have been hired to make sure run polling stations run smoothly and to count the votes.
The count will begin at 10:00 on Friday, 8 May and it is anticipated that results will be declared in all wards by 17:00.
You will be able to follow live coverage of that on the BBC Wolverhampton pages.
Follow BBC Wolverhampton & Black Country on BBC Sounds, Facebook, X and Instagram.
