Local Elections 2026: Why Peterborough cannot afford to turn back - the case for Labour on May 7th
As we approach the local elections on May 7th, the choice facing Peterborough has never been starker, writes Labour Group leader Shabina Qayyum.
On one side, a Labour-led administration delivering tangible results. On the other, the Conservatives, whose 24-year legacy of financial mismanagement still casts a long shadow, and Reform UK, a party promising the earth but delivering cuts, chaos, and division. For progress, stability, and unity, Peterborough must vote Labour.
To understand why Labour is the only credible choice, look at the wreckage left by the Conservatives. For nearly a quarter of a century, the Tories ran Peterborough City Council, culminating in catastrophic financial failures. The most glaring is the Fletton Quays Hilton Hotel scandal. In 2017, the Conservative administration loaned £15 million of public money to developers. Today, the council faces an expected £9–13 million loss on the collapsed deal, leaving taxpayers to foot the bill. We simply cannot afford a return to Conservative rule.
Some voters might be tempted by the populist rhetoric of Reform UK. However, their track record in local government reveals a concerning reality. Since gaining control of several councils last year, Reform has consistently failed to deliver. Despite rhetoric about cutting taxes, fact-checkers found Reform-led councils hiked council tax by up. Furthermore, they have systematically dismantled environmental protections, with seven out of nine Reform-led authorities scrapping climate targets.
Even more alarming is the rhetoric from both Reform and Conservative candidates, threatening to sow huge divisions within our communities. We are seeing a disturbing trend where vital equalities legislation is dismissed as “woke” ideology. Reform UK has explicitly pledged to scrap the Equality Act 2010 and dismantle Diversity, Equality, and Inclusion policies. This is not just a culture war; it has devastating real-world consequences. If these protections are rolled back, ethnic minorities, disabled people, and other vulnerable groups will suffer the most, losing legal safeguards against discrimination. A vote for Reform or the Conservatives is a vote for a more divided, unequal, and poorer Peterborough.
In stark contrast, the Labour-led administration has spent its time securing vital investments and rebuilding our city’s infrastructure. When the Regional Pool was forced to close under the previous administration, Labour stepped up. Thanks to relentless campaigning and collaboration with the new Labour Government, Peterborough secured a £20 million commitment towards a state-of-the-art £36 million swimming pool and leisure facility.
Labour’s commitment extends far beyond leisure. The administration secured £1.5 million in Pride in Place funding to regenerate the city centre, breathing new life into our local economy. Recognizing every child deserves the best start, Labour prioritized crucial investments in Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) services. Furthermore, the rollout of new, inclusive Family Hubs is providing essential, joined-up support for parents and children right in their local communities. Even the small details matter: thousands of flower bulbs have been planted to make our streets greener.
The choice on May 7th is about the soul and future of our city. We can return to the financial ruin of the Conservatives, risk the chaotic cuts and community divisions of Reform UK, or continue moving forward with a Labour team delivering real, positive change. To protect our services, defend equality, and build a better Peterborough for all, the only logical choice is to vote Labour.