Polling stations have opened across Greater Manchester as voters decide who will become the region’s next mayor, ending Andy Burnham’s near decade-long tenure in the role.
The contest is one of the largest mayoral by-elections ever held in the UK, with millions of eligible residents across Greater Manchester’s ten boroughs able to vote. The successful candidate will lead the Greater Manchester Combined Authority until the next scheduled mayoral election.
Why the by-election is taking place
The by-election was triggered after Burnham left the mayoralty following his return to Westminster and subsequent move into national leadership. Under electoral rules, a serving Greater Manchester mayor cannot continue in office after becoming a Member of Parliament, requiring a fresh election to fill the vacancy.
Burnham first became Greater Manchester’s inaugural metro mayor in 2017 and was re-elected twice, making him one of the UK’s longest-serving regional leaders. During his time in office, he became one of the country’s most recognisable metro mayors and a prominent voice on issues including transport, devolution and regional investment.
A significant test for the political parties
The election is being closely watched beyond Greater Manchester because of its potential political significance. Labour is seeking to retain control of one of its strongest regional power bases, while rival parties hope to translate recent electoral gains into support in one of England’s largest metropolitan areas.
Several candidates are contesting the mayoralty, with campaigning focusing on transport, housing, economic growth, policing and public services—issues that fall within the mayor’s devolved responsibilities.
Voting and what comes next
Polling stations are open from 7 a.m. until 10 p.m., with counting set to begin after voting ends. The result is expected to be announced on Friday.
The new mayor will inherit responsibility for overseeing key regional services and continuing long-term projects across Greater Manchester, including transport and economic development, while working with local councils and the UK government on future investment plans.
Why the result matters
Greater Manchester’s metro mayor is one of the most influential directly elected regional leaders in England, overseeing policies that affect millions of residents and businesses. The outcome will provide an early indication of the political landscape following Burnham’s departure and could influence expectations ahead of future local and national elections.
