Residents across Salford are being urged to prepare for this year’s hotly contested local elections after the official Notice of Election was published ahead of polling day on Thursday 7 May 2026.
The election will see voters head to the polls to choose councillors across the city, with one seat contested in each of Salford’s wards as part of the council’s “one-third” election cycle.
However, Cadishead and Lower Irlam is the only exception, where two seats will be contested at this election. This means voters in that ward will be able to elect two councillors, rather than the usual single representative.
Key dates confirmed
The notice sets out a series of important deadlines for voters and candidates:
- Deadline for nominations: 4pm, Thursday 9 April 2026
- Publication of candidate lists: Friday 10 April 2026
- Register to vote by: Monday 20 April 2026
- Apply for postal vote by: Tuesday 21 April 2026
- Apply for proxy vote by: Tuesday 28 April 2026
- Polling day: Thursday 7 May 2026 (7am–10pm)
Residents are reminded that they must be registered to vote in order to take part. You can register or find more details via Salford City Council’s elections pages:
https://www.salford.gov.uk/your-council/elections-and-voting/
Apply for a postal vote
Voters who are unable to attend a polling station can apply for a postal vote. Applications can be completed online here:
https://www.gov.uk/apply-postal-vote
Voter ID reminder
As with recent elections, voters attending polling stations will need to bring an accepted form of photographic identification. Those without ID can apply for a free Voter Authority Certificate before the deadline.
City-wide vote
The Salford election forms part of wider local elections taking place across England on the same day.
Councillors elected in May will serve a four-year term and play a key role in decisions affecting local services, including housing, education, transport, and social care.
With the formal election process now underway, prospective candidates must submit their nomination papers by early April, while voters are being encouraged to ensure they are registered and ready to have their say.
As soon as the candidates list is published we will let you know.
