Why Reform UK believe you should vote for them in the Sunderland City Council elections on May 7

With council elections due to take place on May 7, we are shining the spotlight on the main parties standing in the run-up to polling day.

Sunderland City Council normally holds its elections by “thirds” for its 75 councillors, with one council seat in each of the city’s 25 wards up for grabs each election cycle.

However, a landmark round of local elections is taking place this year following changes to ward boundaries by the Local Government Boundary Commission, with 75 councillors due to be elected to new wards.

Electors can vote for no more than three candidates in their ward and anyone wanting to vote must be on the electoral register.

More than 360 candidates from five established political parties are throwing their hats into the ring, as well as three independent candidates.

All political parties and independent candidates have been given the opportunity to tell readers why you should vote for them.

Here’s what Reform UK Sunderland have to say.

Chris Eynon, chairman of Sunderland Central Reform UK

We are offering a clear, positive vision for Sunderland: one focused on delivering better value for residents, restoring trust in local government and putting frontline services first.

Across the country, Reform-led councils have demonstrated what can be achieved with a fresh approach.

In their first year, they have prioritised efficiency, reduced wasteful spending and collectively identified hundreds of millions of pounds in savings for taxpayers.

They have also delivered the lowest average council tax increases of any party, showing that it is possible to ease the burden on residents while still maintaining essential services.

In Sunderland, we want to build on that approach.

We will review and reduce unnecessary spending, including excessive net zero-related costs, and instead redirect funding towards the services people rely on every day, from cleaner streets to stronger community safety and properly supported frontline staff.

Our focus is simple: value for money, transparency, and delivery. Residents deserve a council that listens, prioritises their needs, and uses every pound wisely.

This election is an opportunity to bring that approach to Sunderland, to ensure the council works for local people, supports communities and delivers real, practical improvements across the city.