Stroud councillor steps down for 'personal reasons' triggering September by-election
Summary
Voters are expected to head to the polls next month to elect a councillor for Stroud District Council . A by-election for the Kingswood ward has been triggered after the recent resignation of Holly Simkiss who has stood down for personal reasons. A poll will take place on Wednesday, September 2 2026, if the election is contested.
Details
The Liberal Democrat councillor, who was elected in May 2024, said it was a pleasure to represent her neighbourhood and wished whoever succeeds her well. “I’m very sad that I need to resign from my role for personal reasons,” she said. “It’s been a pleasure to represent the people of my local area, where I have lived for many years.
“I wish my successor well in the role.” People wishing to stand for election have until 4pm on August 5 to submit their nominations to the council’s offices at Ebley Mill, Ebley Wharf, Stroud, GL5 4UB. And nomination papers can be obtained from the returning officer at the council offices from 10am to 4pm weekdays or by emailing elections@stroud.gov.uk.
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Residents have until midnight August 14 to register to vote and can do so online . And applications, amendments or cancellations of postal votes must reach the electoral registration officer at the council by 5pm August 17, 2026. Application s can also be made online .
The district council is currently led by Green Party councillors who hold 23 seats. The authority also has 18 Labour councillors, six Conservatives, two independents and one Liberal Democrat.
Report source: Gloucestershire Live