The 2026 council and mayoral elections will soon be here, and voters in Kingston upon Thames will be taking to the polls on 7 May.
But who are the contenders and what are the main issues? Here is our guide to all you need to know.
Where is Kingston upon Thames?
Kingston upon Thames is located in the south west of London on the banks of the River Thames.
It borders Richmond, Wandsworth, Merton and Sutton and is about 10–12 miles from Central London.
What happened in the last election?
The 2022 election saw the Liberal Democrats hold control with 41 seats, five more than the previous election.
The Conservatives won three seats, six fewer than the last election. The turnout was 46%.
Liberal Democrats 41 (+5)
Conservative 3 (-6)
Kingston Independent Residents Group 1 (+1)
Since the election there have been a number of defections and the Kingston Independent Resident group now has three councillors.
The Lib Dems first took control of the council in 1994, but it has swung between them and the Conservatives since 2002.
The Lib Dems have run the council since 2018.
What are the local issues?
Key issues facing Kingston’s voters include traffic management and council tax.
Council tax rose by the maximum 4.99% up to £2.608.12 for the average band D property, making Kingston the London borough with the highest council tax.
Despite this, residents will be faced with more tax hikes in the coming years.
Other issues include the planning application for the Grade II* Listed Market House at the centre of Kingston’s Old Town.
The application covers refurbishing the stalls and ensuring the long-term success of the market.
The market sits in the historic Old Town conservation area and serves as a heart of the community.
Residents are campaigning to change the current poor seating, lack of greenery and limited step free access.
Kingston is also affected by the issues that other boroughs are struggling with due to the cost of living.
Who are the ones to watch?
Polling suggests is likely the Liberal Democrats will hold this seat.
However the Greens may be optimistic about snatching a couple of wards due to their increased support in the polls.
A full list of candidates standing in Kingston’s council elections can be found on the Who Can I Vote For website.
Interesting facts about Kingston
Population size: Over 170,000.
Demographics: In the 2021 census, it was found that the population identify as 68-79% White, 10–20% Asian/Asian British including significant South Korean and Sri Lankan Tamil populations, 5% mixed, and 3% Black.
Housing prices: Typical home prices range around £582,000–£600,000, according to data from the Office for National Statistics.
Unemployment: In 2024 the unemployment rate for over-16s was 4.6% ,according to ONS data – above the national average of 3.4%.
Place of interest: Clatten Bridge, which goes over Hogsmill River in the centre of the borough, is believed to be the oldest surviving bridge in London.
Feature image: Free to use from Harry Grout via Unsplash
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