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Westminster Local Elections 2026: What West End Businesses Need to Know

Local elections will take place in City of Westminster on 7 May 2026.

A change in administration could lead to new policies affecting the West End, including licensing, planning, street management, business costs and public safety.

HOLBA is monitoring developments closely and providing West End businesses with the insight and advocacy needed to navigate potential changes.

Download our election briefing to understand what the results could mean for your business and how HOLBA is representing member priorities.

What Could Change for West End Businesses?

Local elections can influence a range of policies that directly affect businesses operating in the WestEnd. These include:

  • Licensing and trading

Reviewing licensing policies that affect the evening and night time economy, with implications for hospitality, retail and entertainment venues.

  • Infrastructure and street operations

Changes to traffic management, public events, street cleansing and public realm policies that shape footfall, accessibility and operating costs.

  • Planning and development

Updates to planning policy and zoning that could affect property use, redevelopment and business expansion.

How HOLBA Can Help:

HOLBA is working to ensure the priorities of West End businesses are understood during the election period and by the next council administration. 

West End Weekly Newsletter ANIMATION

HOLBA Manifesto: Priorities for the West End

Read our key policy asks for the next administration, which includes support for our West End International Centre initiative, business rates reform, the return of VAT free shopping and improving safety.

Read More about holba.london/who-we-are/our-delivery-plans
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Policy & Progress Newsletter

Stay informed with monthly updates on local political developments and HOLBA advocacy.

Read More about holba.london/our-newsletters
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Post-Election Briefing

Join our briefing following the May 2026 elections for analysis of the results and what they mean for West End businesses.

Read More about holba.london/events/the-election-results-explained-with-concilio-communications-post-election-webinar

Got questions or want to discuss our advocacy work? Email antonia@holba.london for personalised advice.