We’ve invited all the parties standing in the May 1st Buckinghamshire Council local elections to explain why they believe they deserve your vote to become your Councillors.
Voting in local council elections in Buckinghamshire is important for a few key reasons — even though they don’t get as much attention as general elections, they have a big impact on everyday life. Here's why your vote matters:
1. Local councils make decisions that directly affect you
They’re responsible for services like:
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Rubbish collection and recycling
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Housing and planning permission
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Local roads and transport
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Libraries and leisure centres
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Social care and support services
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Schools
If you care about how clean your street is, how much council tax you pay, or whether a new housing development goes up near you — that’s your local council’s job.
2. Your vote carries more weight
Turnout is usually much lower in local elections compared to general elections, meaning each vote has more influence. A few votes can make the difference in who gets elected.
3. It’s a chance to hold councillors accountable
Voting gives you the power to support people who reflect your views and remove those who aren’t doing a good job. Councillors make decisions on how public money is spent — you should have a say in who’s making those calls.
4. It builds democratic habits
Being involved locally strengthens democracy overall. It keeps the system more responsive and makes it more likely that your community’s needs will be heard at higher levels too.
5. Local issues shape national politics
Local elections can be a reflection of public opinion on national issues, but they can also shape the future of political parties and leaders. They’re often the testing ground for new policies or political movements.
So even if it feels small, your local vote really is powerful.
Check Out these statements from the main Local Parties, standing on May 1st in Bucks.
Musical raises over £12,500 for hospice charity
South Central Ambulance Service says Rising levels of violence must stop
Buckinghamshire Recycles asks residents to Rescue Me, Recycle
Huge Milestone for Bike ReCycles
VE Day Flypast Scheduled
Aylesbury Library Weeklong Closure
Celebrate St George's Day with a Historical Fayre and Grand Parade in Aylesbury
Local Charity brings new investment in patient care
