West Midlands Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC), Simon Foster, has sought formal assurances from West Midlands Police regarding the safety and security of the upcoming local elections on May 7, 2026.
As residents across Birmingham, Coventry, Dudley, Sandwell, Solihull, Walsall and Wolverhampton prepare to head to the polls, the PCC questioned the force on ‘Operation Applegreen’ – the dedicated policing plan designed to protect candidates, staff and voters from harassment, intimidation and electoral malpractice.
West Midlands Police and Crime Commissioner, Simon Foster, said: “Free and fair elections are fundamental to our democracy. It is essential that candidates can campaign without fear of harassment and intimidation and that every voter feels safe when attending their local polling station.
“I have asked the force for clear assurances that Operation Applegreen is robust and that the lessons learned from previous elections are being applied. We must ensure that the 2026 local elections are safe, secure and accessible for everyone involved.”
In response to the PCC’s inquiry, West Midlands Police confirmed that a comprehensive security operation is already underway, spearheaded by a dedicated Defending Democracy team.
Assistant Chief Constable Mike O’Hara, Gold Commander for Operation Applegreen, said: “We are currently working with local authorities to understand and assess around 1,270 polling stations ahead of this year’s elections.
“Following national and local learning from the 2024 General Election – particularly in relation to anti-social behaviour, harassment and intimidatory behaviour – we have a team for electoral malpractice, we also have a team for broader crime and anti-social behaviour to ensure a swift and appropriate response to any issues that arise.”
The force confirmed that a specialist Sergeant and PC are working exclusively with councillors, MPs and elected officials to provide bespoke security advice throughout the campaign period.
Local elections will take place across the West Midlands on Thursday, May 7, 2026. Residents are reminded to check their local authority websites for details on polling stations and voter ID requirements.
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