What were the results in Bexley?

The Conservative Party has cemented its strong hold over Bexley Council, extending its two-decade reign in the south-east London authority after Thursday’s local elections .

The Tories secured 29 of the 45 available seats, losing only one in the process.

Reform UK made a notable entry into the council, electing seven councillors for the first time.

However, the outcome fell short of Nigel Farage ’s recent claim that his party had a "real chance" of winning Bexley.

While the vote count was often a tightly contested race between Reform and the Conservatives, the Tories ultimately triumphed in most wards, limiting Reform’s overall gains.

The final result of the council was delayed after a recount was ordered for the two-seat ward, Slade Green and Northend, where votes were too close to call between Labour and Reform.

Labour eventually won the seats, giving them nine councillors overall.

Labour in Bexley mirrored a nationwide trend , experiencing a reduction in their councillor numbers from the 2022 election - down from 12.

Following his party's victory, Conservative leader David Leaf declared it was "business as usual" in Bexley, promising to be back in his office later on Friday to begin implementing the promises made in their manifesto.

Cllr Leaf said the win was “really emotional and moving” and he felt it was a privilege to once again serve the residents of Bexley.

He said: “We are obviously delighted that our residents have put their trust back in us again.

It is bittersweet if I’m honest because some good, hardworking councillors lost their seats sadly.

But we are pleased the residents put their trust in us.

“They looked over the border and saw the chaos, broken promises, deceit and lies that Reform offer in local government in Kent and they didn’t want it here.”
When asked how he felt about Reform now having a presence on Bexley Council , Cllr Leaf said: “We get on with the job of representing our residents.

They’re there to serve Nigel Farage ’s ego.

“Like with anyone, we have to wait and see what they do on the council, but based on what they’ve been doing with their campaign, I don’t think they’ve got much to offer.”
Here are the full results in Bexley
Bexley (Total number of seats: 45)