The much-anticipated Makerfield by-election is scheduled for Thursday, and electoral officials are urging local residents to verify their eligibility to vote in this nationally significant contest.
Background of the By-Election
The by-election was triggered by the sudden resignation of Labour MP Josh Simons on May 14, creating a vacancy that allows Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham to seek a return to Westminster. The race has become a fierce battleground, especially after May's local elections saw Reform UK sweep every council ward within the Makerfield boundary.
Who Can Vote?
To vote in the Makerfield by-election, individuals must meet all of the following requirements on polling day:
- Be registered on the electoral register within the Makerfield constituency boundaries.
- Be 18 or over on June 18, 2026.
- Live at an address within the Makerfield constituency.
Residency Requirements
The Makerfield constituency does not represent a single town but rather a collection of skilled working-class suburbs and towns south of Wigan and west of Leigh. Following recent boundary changes, the key areas and wards where residents can vote include:
- Ashton-in-Makerfield
- Abram
- Bryn
- Hindley & Hindley Green
- Orrell
- Winstanley
- Worsley Mesnes
- Parts of Atherleigh and Leigh West
If your property falls outside these boundaries—for instance, in central Wigan or central Leigh—you will not be eligible to vote in this election.
Voter ID Requirements
This by-election enforces the UK's mandatory Voter ID laws. To cast your ballot in person at a polling station, you must bring an approved form of photo identification. Accepted forms include:
- A valid UK, European Economic Area (EEA), or Commonwealth passport
- A valid UK or EEA photocard driving licence
- A blue badge or an older person's bus pass
- An Oyster 60+ card
If you do not possess any of these, you must have applied for a free Voter Authority Certificate ahead of the local deadline to be permitted to vote.
Importance of the Vote
High-profile Labour candidate Andy Burnham faces a strong challenge from Reform UK’s Robert Kenyon, making every single local vote critical to the final outcome. Polling stations will be open from 7am to 10pm on Thursday.
