The Government has confirmed it will extend the LGPS to councillors and mayors in England. This means the LGPS will be open to:
- mayors and deputy mayors in England
- councillors at principal authorities in England – not town or parish councils
- London Assembly members.
The change will take effect from 11 May 2026, the first Monday after the local elections.
Entry to the LGPS won’t be automatic. Councillors and mayors will need to opt in if they want to join. Membership would then begin at the start of the pay period after their request.
The Government says the change will help attract more people into public service. It will also make pension provision more consistent across the UK.
The LGA is working with MHCLG to sort out any technical questions about the new rules. They’re also preparing:
- a bulletin, explaining the differences between elected and non-elected LGPS members
- updates to the national LGPS member website
- a brief guide for councillors and mayors in England.
We’ll update our website as we get more information. We’ll also contact the affected authorities so they can support their elected members.
