Merton Liberal Democrats: strong results show growing support for change

Merton Liberal Democrats have welcomed a strong set of results at the 2026 local elections, securing their largest number of seats yet.

Labour received 31% of the vote (down 9% from 2022) – and elected 32 councillors. The Liberal Democrats received 28% of the vote (up 4% from 2022) and 19 councillors – the largest group of Lib Dem councillors ever elected to Merton. 

The Conservative Party only received 15% of the vote (down 6% from 2022) and elected 4 councillors, their worst ever result locally. The Leader of the Conservative Party locally lost his seat. No Green Party or Reform councillors were elected.

The Liberal Democrats say they have strengthened their position and will continue to play a leading role in holding the Labour administration to account.

The Party, which campaigned on its manifesto Building the Merton we're proud to call home, says the outcome reflects increasing support for its vision of a more competent, transparent, and resident-focused council, alongside continued concerns from residents about rising costs and pressure on local services.

Cllr Anthony Fairclough, Leader of Merton Liberal Democrats, said:
 

"These results show that more and more residents across the borough are putting their trust in the Liberal Democrats to stand up for them and focus on the issues that matter most locally. 
 

"Liberal Democrat gains from both Labour and the Conservatives, prove there is a growing appetite for change, and that residents are putting their trust in Lib Dem councillors to stand up for their communities. 
 

"While Labour Council bosses have narrowly held on, it's clear there are serious concerns about how the Council is being run. 
 

"With more councillors and a stronger opposition, we will continue to challenge where things aren't good enough and push for better services, better value for money and a more responsive Council.
 

"We are proud to represent residents across Merton and will keep working hard to ensure residents' voices are heard."