POLLING stations have opened their doors across Manchester as residents choose their replacement for Andy Burnham, reports BritPanorama.
A by-election is being held today to elect the Mayor of Greater Manchester following Burnham’s disqualification from the post after he won the 2026 Makerfield by-election and became an MP.
The current acting mayor, Paul Dennett from Labour, who has served as Burnham’s deputy since 2021, is not standing in this election.
The Supplementary Vote system allows voters to select their first and second choices, adding a layer of complexity to the voting process. The winner of this by-election, advertised as the largest in UK history, will serve as mayor until the next scheduled election in 2028.
Sian Astley is the group leader for Reform UK and has lived in Manchester for 35 years. She currently represents the Baguley ward as a councillor and owns 17 small flats across three properties in south Manchester. Astley advocates for “commonsense leadership,” focusing on safer streets and the protection of green spaces, while expressing her opposition to the influx of illegal migrants.
Geraldine Coggins leads the Green Party group on Trafford Council and relocated to Manchester from Dublin. Having spent the last eight years engaging with city leaders, Coggins calls for real change, voicing concerns over council cuts and community impact.
Bev Craig, the first female and LGBTQ+ leader of Manchester City Council, is standing for the Labour Co-op Party. With an OBE for services to local government, Craig aims to continue Burnham’s legacy, promising to be an effective and solution-oriented mayor.
Phil Eckersley represents the Conservatives and seeks to address issues such as neglected infrastructure and rising council taxes. He pledges a fairer allocation of resources across Greater Manchester, advocating for the needs of less central boroughs.
Richard Kilpatrick of the Liberal Democrats has a plan focused on improving affordability for residents through better child care, housing, and social care. He also emphasizes the significance of rebuilding ties with the EU in the post-Brexit landscape.
Marlon West, an independent candidate and former nurse, is advocating for a high-profile inquiry into child sexual exploitation, following his personal experiences. His agenda includes a women’s safety summit and a crime taskforce for Greater Manchester.
Marcus Farmer, also running as an independent, prioritizes the needs of young people, tackling issues such as student debt and the housing crisis. He expresses concern over demographic trends which may lead to a population decline.
This election is taking place at a pivotal moment for Manchester, as candidates seek to outline their visions amidst a backdrop of significant urban challenges.
As the by-election unfolds, it reflects broader themes of leadership and civic engagement in contemporary British politics, with an emphasis on local governance and community needs.
