Polls are closing at 10pm in the Gateshead High Fell by-election, triggered by the resignation of newly elected Reform UK councillor Danielle Cavanagh. Cavanagh stood down shortly after winning the seat in May's local elections, prompting a fresh vote in the ward.
Background to the By-Election
The by-election was called after Cavanagh resigned her seat on Gateshead Council, where Reform UK had recently secured a majority. The party had previously stated it would refund the cost of the by-election by having one of its cabinet members forgo their special responsibility allowance for this year.
Polling stations opened at 7am across the ward, including at Springwell Community Centre, St John's Church, Beacon Lough Baptist Church, Larkspur Community Primary School, and St Oswalds RC Primary School. Voters had until 10pm to cast their ballots, with postal votes also accepted.
Count Underway at Gateshead Civic Centre
After polls close, ballot boxes will be transported to Gateshead Civic Centre, where votes will be verified and counted. Local Democracy Reporter Austen Shakespeare is at the count to provide updates. The result is expected later tonight.
This by-election is the first test of public opinion since Reform UK's local election success in May, and the outcome will be closely watched for any shifts in voter sentiment.
