Local elections: Businesses urged to make voices heard today 

Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce (GBCC) is urging businesses across the region to take part and ensure their voices are represented today in the local elections.

Elections are taking place today for every seat on Birmingham City Council, as well as some seats in Solihull, Tamworth, Cannock Chase and Royal Sutton Coldfield Town.  

Local authorities make decisions every day that shape the environment in which businesses operate – from planning and transport to waste collection, skills, regeneration and local services.

The councillors elected today will play a key role in determining how successfully local areas support economic growth, investment and thriving communities over the coming years. 

Polling stations are open today, and voters who are registered can cast their ballot.

As the region’s leading business membership organisation, GBCC has been actively championing the importance of business engagement throughout the election period.

In recent weeks, the Chamber has written to candidates to encourage dialogue with the business community and has created a Local Elections Hub, with information about voting in each of the regional elections. 

GBCC senior policy advisor Ruth Fleet (pictured) said: “Local elections matter to businesses because of the wide range of responsibilities held by councils.

“Voting today is one of the most direct ways business owners and employees can influence the decisions that affect their workplaces, neighbourhoods and supply chains.” 

Businesses are also encouraged to continue engaging with the Chamber after the elections, as it works with newly elected councillors to advocate for policies that enable firms to grow and thrive. 

You can also find your local polling station here.