The 1986 Epping Forest District Council election took place on 8 May 1986 to elect members of Epping Forest District Council in Essex, England. 19 members of Epping Forest District Council in Essex were elected. The council remained under Conservative majority control.
Background
The 1986 Epping Forest District Council election was held on 8 May 1986 to elect members of Epping Forest District Council in Essex, England. The vote saw the Conservative Party retain overall control of the council, despite losing two seats to the SDP-Liberal Alliance, which doubled its representation and became an increasingly influential presence. The Loughton Residents Association continued its strong performance, holding key wards and maintaining its local influence. The election reflected a period of heightened political engagement locally, mirroring broader national trends, as voters reacted to both economic pressures and government controversies. Nationally, Britain was experiencing significant events, including the resignation of Michael Heseltine and Leon Brittan over the Westland affair, a postwar high in unemployment, and the first local elections following the abolition of the Greater London Council and metropolitan county councils. Industrial unrest was also prominent, exemplified by the ongoing Wapping dispute. Despite these challenges, the Conservatives managed to maintain control in Epping Forest, with the Liberals making incremental gains, highlighting the growing appeal of third-party alternatives during a turbulent political and economic period.
Results summary Source:
Ward results
Buckhurst Hill East
Buckhurst Hill West
Chigwell Row
Chigwell Village
Debden Green
Epping Hemnall
Epping Lindsey
Grange Hill
Loughton Broadway
Loughton Forest
Loughton Roding
Loughton St. Johns
Loughton St. Mary’s
Nazeing
North Weald Bassett
Theydon Bois
Waltham Abbey East
Waltham Abbey Paternoster
Waltham Abbey West
References