May local elections scrapped as Suffolk fast-tracked for devolution shake-up

Why it matters: The cancellation of local elections paves the way for Suffolk's transformation to a new unitary authority system, with all existing councils now set to be abolished and replaced by 2026.

What they're saying: Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner defended the decision to postpone elections, saying: "After careful consideration, I've only agreed to postpone elections in places where this is central to our manifesto promise to deliver devolution."

She told Parliament: "We're not in the business of holding elections to bodies that won't exist and where we don't know what will replace them. This would be an expensive and irresponsible waste of taxpayers' money."

The big picture: Suffolk and Norfolk are among seven areas chosen for devolution "with a view to mayoral elections in May 2026".

How it works: Under the plans:

• All existing Suffolk councils will be abolished

• A new unitary system will be created, though the number of authorities is yet to be decided

• A directly elected mayor will oversee Suffolk and Norfolk

• The first mayoral election will take place in May 2026

Neil MacDonald, Leader of Ipswich Borough Council, welcomed the announcement, stating, “Suffolk is on the devolution priority programme, and we are intent on ensuring that, once elected, the new Mayor for Suffolk and Norfolk makes a positive difference to Ipswich."

Yes, but opposition grows: Green Party co-leader Adrian Ramsay questioned the democratic process: "How can the government claim an electoral mandate for these major local government changes if those most impacted see their elections cancelled?"

While local Green Party representatives called it a threat to democracy: "People must be allowed to vote at the local elections in May. The big parties in Westminster claim they want to devolve more power to local councils, but Labour's latest plans would see this year's election cancelled."

Liberal Democrat Leader Sir Ed Davey MP described the postponement as a "disgraceful stitch up between Labour and the Conservatives".

"The Liberal Democrats made sweeping gains against the Conservatives at the general election, and now failing Tory-run councils are running scared and denying voters a chance to kick them out of office in May," he said.

Suffolk County Council reaction: Conservative Suffolk County Council Leader Matthew Hicks welcomed the announcement: "By welcoming Suffolk onto the fast-track programme, ministers have recognised that we are serious about council reorganisation and devolution and able to deliver ambitious changes quickly.

"Devolution and council reorganisation will mean we can secure and free up funding to plough directly back into public services that benefit our residents."

The bottom line: Suffolk residents face the most significant change to local democracy in 50 years, but while supporters for devolution argue it will streamline services, save money and bring more powers locally, critics fear it could reduce democratic accountability and local representation – especially in Ipswich.