Voters in Hextable ward are casting their ballots today in a by-election to fill a vacant seat on Sevenoaks District Council. Five candidates are standing for the position, representing a range of political parties and independent interests.

The candidates competing are Lee Allen from the Conservative Party, Jackie Griffiths standing as an Independent candidate, Daniel Kersten representing Reform UK, Ashley Francis Edward Wassall from the Liberal Democrats, and Oliver Young from the Green Party.

The by-election comes as part of regular local government processes, with polling stations across the ward open for residents to cast their votes. Those eligible to vote must have been registered to vote by midnight on 17 February 2026.

Postal votes were distributed from 20 February 2026, allowing residents to participate in advance if unable to visit a polling station on the day. The deadline to apply for postal or proxy votes passed on 18 February, with additional voter authority applications closing on 25 February.

Sevenoaks District Council confirmed the polling station locations and situation notices on 25 February, with information provided to residents via their poll cards. The council has maintained standard electoral procedures throughout the process.

This by-election represents a significant moment for local democracy in Sevenoaks. The ward directly feeds into the wider district council, which comprises two seats. The voting system used is first-past-the-post, meaning the candidate with the highest number of votes will win the seat.

This by-election also occurs against the backdrop of Kent preparing for local government reorganisation. The outcome in Hextable will contribute to the political composition of Sevenoaks District Council as the local authority landscape prepares for significant structural changes in the coming years.

Polling stations are open throughout the day, allowing eligible residents to vote at their designated locations. Those who have arranged postal votes should ensure these are returned in time to be counted.

The result of the by-election will be announced once polls close and votes have been counted. This outcome will determine which candidate represents Hextable ward residents on the council for the remainder of the current term.

Key Takeaways

• Five candidates from different political backgrounds are competing for the Hextable ward seat
• Polling day is today, with voting available at designated stations across the ward
• Postal voting arrangements were available for those unable to vote in person
• The by-election takes place as Kent prepares for wider local government reorganisation

What This Means for Kent Residents

The result of today’s Hextable by-election will shape local representation for ward residents and influence the overall balance of Sevenoaks District Council. Regardless of which candidate wins, the successful representative will have responsibility for local issues affecting the community until the next scheduled district council elections.