What you need to know about voting in the Brighton and Hove City Council elections

Here's all you need to know about the elections.

When are the council elections?

The local elections for Brighton and Hove City Council takes place on Thursday, May 2 2019.

What are we voting for?

Residents will be voting to elect 54 ward councillors to sit on Brighton and Hove City Council. The council is divided into 21 wards – each is represented by two or three councillors. Residents vote to elects the councillors they want to represent their ward.

How can I register to vote?

Most adults who live in the city, including EU and Commonwealth citizens, are eligible to vote in a local election, but you must be registered by Friday, April 12.

You can vote in the Brighton & Hove City Council elections if you are: registered to vote; a resident in Brighton & Hove; aged 18 or over on May 2 (although you can register from 16); a UK, Irish, Commonwealth or European Union citizen.

To register, visit: www.gov.uk/register-to-vote

How do I know if I am registered?

If you've previously voted in an election and you haven't moved house or changed your details you're probably still registered to vote.

A form was sent to residents in February showing the electoral information we have for your household. If the information on that was correct, or you followed the steps to change the details, you will be registered.

Apply for a postal or proxy vote

If you know that you will be unable to get to your polling station on election day, you can organise a postal or proxy vote. This must be arranged in advance. It can be set up as a permanent option.

You must be registered to vote to apply for a postal or proxy vote.

Apply for a postal vote by the statutory deadline for the local elections (5pm on Monday April 15) your postal vote will be dispatched on April 18.

If you want someone to vote on your behalf, you'll need to complete a proxy vote application form.

Click here to apply for a postal or proxy vote.

Who is standing for election?

The Labour Party, Conservative Party, Green Party, Liberal Democrats, UKIP and the Women's Equality Party have all announced candidates for the forthcoming elections.

Here's the full list of candidates: Every candidate standing in the Brighton and Hove City Council elections

What is the political make-up of the council now?

Although the council is run by the Labour administration, the Conservatives are now the largest party after a defection and the formation of the new The Independent Group.

All 54 seats will be up for grabs in the council election in May 2019.

This page will be updated as more information is announced.