Labour has retained control across Southall in the latest Ealing Council elections, but the results also revealed growing support for independent candidates and Reform UK in several wards.

In wards including Southall Green, Southall Broadway and Southall West, Labour candidates were elected again, continuing the party’s long-standing dominance in the area. However, compared with previous elections, Labour faced stronger competition from community independents, smaller parties and Reform UK candidates.

One of the biggest stories locally was the performance of the “Ealing Community Independents – Putting Southall First” group. In Southall Green ward, 3 independent candidates received more than 1,000 votes each, showing strong local backing even though they did not win seats.

---

For independent candidates, reaching four-figure vote totals in London local elections is generally considered significant. Without the organisational support of major political parties, many independents typically secure only a few hundred votes. Passing the 1,000-vote mark usually reflects strong community recognition, active local campaigning and genuine grassroots support.

Reform UK also increased its visibility across Ealing and Southall. While Reform candidates did not come close to winning locally, the party attracted several hundred votes in Southall wards, reflecting wider national trends where Reform has gained support in parts of England.

The results suggest that although Southall remains largely Labour-supporting, voters are increasingly willing to consider alternatives. Independent candidates appeared to attract support around local community issues, while Reform’s vote indicates frustration among some voters with mainstream politics.

Across Ealing as a whole, Labour retained control of the council but lost a number of seats compared with previous elections. Liberal Democrats, Greens and Conservatives also made gains in parts of the borough.