A by-election could be called for a seat on Wigan council following the recent death of long-standing member Bob Brierley. An election will be called for one seat on the council to represent the Hindley Green ward if two people eligible to vote from the area request one in writing.
If that does not happen, the ward will have a vacancy and the election to replace Coun Brierley will be held alongside the next scheduled local elections in May 2027.
Long-serving Independent councillor
Coun Brierley, who was an Independent, represented the ward at the town hall for 22 years. He died last month.
Described as dedicated and passionate in his service to constituents, his funeral on September 25 was attended by hundreds.
Official vacancy notice issued
A notice on Wigan council's website gave details of the vacancy. It said: "Notice is hereby given that a casual vacancy has occurred in the office of councillor for the Hindley Green ward of the above mentioned borough, due to the death of councillor Robert Brierley.
"If notice in writing of the vacancy is given to me by two local government electors for the electoral area, an election to fill the vacancy will be held within the statutory period."
Election timetable and council balance
Government guidance states that once two electors contact the council about the vacancy it will trigger the start of the election timetable and dates for nominations and polling will be set. If a by-election takes place it will not alter the control of the full council.
Presently, Labour hold 38 of the 75 seats, Reform UK has 25 councillors, with Independents having 11 along with the single Hindley Green vacancy. A third of seats on the council are set to be contested in local elections in May 2027.
