Media attendance at elections

Media organisations must register for accreditation in advance to gain access to the 2026 London Borough of Richmond upon Thames local elections.

Local elections 2026

The local elections are scheduled to take place on Thursday 7 May 2026. Ballots will be counted after polling stations close at 10pm.

The count will be held at the Tennis Hall, St Mary’s University, Waldegrave Road, Twickenham TW1 4SX.

Those wanting media accreditation are asked to register in advance to attend.

Apply for accreditation

To apply for media accreditation, you must complete and return the form by 5pm Friday 1 May.

Those without prior accreditation will not be able to enter the count on the night.

Read the guidance before applying for accreditation:

• Count location
• Media guidance
• Secrecy requirements

Register for media accreditation

Site visits

You can arrange a technical recce of the site. You must contact the Council's Press Office, not the university, to arrange this.

Please give as much notice in advance of the registration closing date if this is required.

Contact

For enquiries about attending the count, contact Richmond Council Press Office at press-pr@richmond.gov.uk or on 020 8487 5182.

Please do not contact the university directly.