Conservatives launch 2026 West Oxfordshire election campaign

Candidates and campaigners gathered in Carterton to kick off the campaign, focusing on their existing work in communities and their plan to improve services across West Oxfordshire.

Michele Mead, Conservative district group leader, said: “Our team is committed to delivering for local people, whether that’s protecting frontline services, supporting our communities or ensuring new developments are backed by the infrastructure we need.

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“The current Liberal Democrat-led coalition is not delivering the improvements residents expect or deserve. We believe there is a better way and we are ready to step up and provide it.”

Liam Walker, Conservative deputy group leader, added: “We’re proud to be launching our campaign here in Carterton with a fantastic team of hardworking local candidates.

Liam Walker. (Image: PA/Submit)

“This election is about backing people who are out in their communities all year round, listening to residents and standing up for them.

“Across West Oxfordshire, people are telling us the same thing – they want to see better services and stronger leadership.

“We have a clear plan to deliver that and to build a council that works for everyone.”

The Conservatives say their campaign will “focus on their plan for a better council, including stopping the waste of taxpayers’ money, campaigning to scrap the new Lib Dem tips booking system, and ensuring responsible development across the district with money spent on infrastructure upgrades like roads and sewage systems”.

Conservative candidates will be up against people from Labour, Lib Dems, Greens, Reform and independent candidates.

The election will take place on Thursday, May 7.