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Sunderland local election

Houghton South & Hetton Downs ward

This election will be held on Thursday 7 May 2026.

  • This is an election for metropolitan borough councillors.

    Councillors represent the people of their ward on the council. Councillors are elected for four-year terms. Most wards are represented by more than one councillor, which is why you may have more than one vote.

    Metropolitan borough councils are responsible for many different services, including:

    • Child and adult social care
    • Schools and education
    • Rubbish collection and recycling
    • Housing and planning
    • Libraries and museums
    • Roads and pavements
    • Sports facilities and public parks

    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 three votes, and can choose from 14 candidates.

  • How to vote

    This election uses First-past-the-post.

    Mark an X in the box for your preferred candidates.

    You can mark up to three candidates.

    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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