A High Court judge has cleared the way for Reform UK to continue a legal challenge linked to the decision to cancel scheduled local elections in a number of English councils, intensifying political debate over democratic accountability.

The case centres on the government’s move to postpone elections in around 30 local authorities that are undergoing major structural reorganisation. Reform UK argues that the decision denies voters the opportunity to hold local leaders to account and raises serious concerns about the protection of democratic rights.

At a preliminary hearing, the judge ruled that the challenge is legally arguable and should be allowed to proceed to the next stage. The court has not ruled on the merits of the case itself.

Government representatives have maintained that the postponements are necessary to allow new council structures and governance arrangements to be properly implemented, and that fresh elections will take place once the changes are complete.

Reform UK welcomed the ruling, saying the decision is an important step in testing whether the election delays are lawful and proportionate.

The legal process is now expected to move quickly, with the outcome likely to carry wider implications for future local government reform and the timing of elections across England.