Last Friday, whilst the national spotlight was focused on the unexpected outcome of the General Election, counts were taking place for the election of over 9000 councillors to 279 local authorities across the breadth of England.

With the General Election causing both a higher turnout and a significant element of voting along national party lines, the outcome of polling day saw an increasing dominance of local government by both Labour and the Conservatives.

The latter benefited from their national progress, taking overall control of over 30 local authorities and a 500+ net gain in councillors, to reinforce the position they have held since 2004 as the largest party in local government. Labour had mixed fortunes but in overall terms suffered losses, whilst the Lib Dems collapsed and UKIP modestly advanced, including winning control of their first council.