Electoral process

Find out about the process for local and national elections.

District and borough councils administer all elections, whether they are:

  • parliamentary
  • county
  • borough
  • district
  • parish

District and borough council elections

These are usually held either every four years or every three out of four years. Details can be found on the relevant district or borough council website.

County council elections

These are usually held every fourth year.

They decide the 70 county councillors who will each represent an electoral division in West Sussex.

The last county council elections were held in 2021. The next election will be held on 7 May 2026.

Find further information on the future of local government in West Sussex.

By-elections

These can be held at any time between scheduled elections, usually when a county councillor resigns or dies.

Parliamentary elections

There are 9 Members of Parliament representing constituencies in West Sussex.

Alert me: Sign up to receive County Council election email alerts.

 
Last updated:
17 February 2026
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