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Essex local election

Witham West & Rural division

This election will be held on Thursday 7 May 2026.

  • This is an election for county councillors.

    Councillors represent the people of their division on the council. Councillors are elected for four-year terms. Each county division elects one councillor.

    County councils are responsible for many different services, including:

    • Child and adult social care
    • Schools and education
    • Libraries and museums
    • Roads and pavements

    Councils are funded by a combination of council tax, business rates, and grants from the UK government. Councillors are not paid a salary, but they do receive financial compensation and expenses to cover their time and travel commitments.

    Learn more about English local government from New Local.

You will have one vote, and can choose from five candidates.

  • How to vote

    This election uses First-past-the-post.

    Mark an X in the box for your preferred candidate.

    You can mark up to one candidate.

    Read the instructions at the top of your ballot paper carefully.

    For more information, visit The Electoral Commission's website or ask an official at your polling station.

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