Local elections 2025: CCN stands ready to support new administrations

The 2025 local elections took place last Thursday, with several County Councils Network member councils changing political control, or going into no overall control ahead of new administrations being formed.

If you are a new or returning councillor, our councillor guide explains what the CCN is, how the network works, its support to member councils and what we have achieved in recent years.

It profiles the big issues coming down the line for county and unitary councils, and how the network will be advocating the interests of county and unitary councils on these issues.

It also sets out how councillors can get involved in the network, and our current priorities.

You can download it here.

For the CCN, the outcome of the elections will mean there will be changes to the political balance of the network and composition of executive positions. The political balance is currently being calculated, with the network’s September Annual General Meeting appointing the leadership of the network in line with the new political balance.

Simon Edwards, Chief Executive of the County Councils Network, said:

“The County Councils Network (CCN) would like to congratulate all newly elected and returning councillors. These councillors have a unique privilege in leading and representing communities across our county and rural areas.

“The outcome of these elections has clearly resulted in significant change in the leadership and political composition of county and unitary councils up and down the country. New administrations will enter office at a time of significant change in local government.

“As a strong cross-party network, representing the interest of county and unitary authorities the length and breadth of England, we be working closely with and supporting all elected councillors as they navigate these first few weeks in office.

“Importantly, as the only body representing the interests of county and large unitary councils on a national stage, CCN will continue to advocate for the resources and powers our councils need to deliver for the residents and businesses they have been elected to serve for the next four years.”