Published on Friday 08 May 2026
The political composition of three new town councils in the Bournemouth and Poole area has been confirmed.
A total of 50 town councillors have been elected to the three new authorities.
Bournemouth and Poole town councils will each have 21 councillors. Broadstone Town Council will have eight councillors.
A total of 91,801 residents cast their votes for the elections across 136 polling stations from 7am yesterday (Thursday 7 May).
Votes were verified and counted at the Bournemouth International Centre today (Friday 8 May).
The first results were announced by Returning Officer Aidan Dunn at 12.30pm, with Merley ward.
The last result to be announced was Bournemouth Central, Westbourne & West Cliff, just after 7pm.
Reform UK has the largest number of town councillors on Bournemouth Town Council. Turnout for Bournemouth Town Council area was 34.13%.
Reform UK has the largest number of town councillors on Poole Town Council. Turnout for Poole Council area was 37.35%.
Liberal Democrats has the largest number of town councillors on Broadstone Town Council. Turnout for Broadstone Town Council area was 49.77%.
A full list of the results can be found at: www.bcpcouncil.gov.uk/elections
Aidan Dunn, Returning Officer, said: “I want to thank the incredible efforts of the hundreds of staff who have helped deliver this election.
“I also want to recognise all the candidates for their work over the last six weeks to engage with our residents across Bournemouth, Poole and Broadstone.”
The new town councils legally came into existence on 1 April 2026. Since then, staff employed by the new councils have been putting in place the governance arrangements, policies and systems needed to support the councils’ work.
Following the election, each town council will hold its Annual Meeting to confirm key roles, such as Mayor or Chair and to agree its committees and priorities.
After that, the councils will begin their usual programme of meetings and activities in line with their governance arrangements, focusing on delivering local priorities for residents.