Could Greater Manchester elect its first woman mayor?

As Greater Manchester awaits the declaration of its mayoral by-election, one potential milestone has emerged alongside the political contest. If Reform UK candidate Sian Astley is elected, she would become the first woman to serve as the directly elected Mayor of Greater Manchester since the office was established in 2017.

The mayoralty has grown into one of the most influential elected positions outside Westminster. The successful candidate will oversee transport through the Bee Network, hold the powers of the Police and Crime Commissioner, help shape housing and regeneration policy, manage elements of adult education funding and represent Greater Manchester in discussions with central government over future devolution.

Astley entered politics after a career in business and property development before winning election as a councillor in Manchester. Her mayoral campaign has focused on transparency in regional government, neighbourhood policing, public spending and directing investment across all ten Greater Manchester boroughs. She has argued that communities outside Manchester city centre should receive a greater share of future funding and infrastructure projects.

If elected, Astley would follow Tony Lloyd and Andy Burnham, both of whom held the office before her. While women have led councils and held senior public roles across Greater Manchester, the directly elected mayoralty has so far only been occupied by men.

The possibility of the city-region electing its first female mayor has attracted attention beyond party politics. Supporters describe it as an opportunity to broaden representation in one of England's most significant devolved offices, while political opponents have continued to debate her policies rather than the historical significance of her candidacy.

The election itself follows Andy Burnham's departure after almost a decade in office. During that time, the role expanded considerably through devolution agreements, making the mayor responsible for decisions that affect millions of residents across Rochdale, Manchester, Salford, Bolton, Bury, Oldham, Stockport, Tameside, Trafford and Wigan.

Whatever the outcome, the by-election represents a significant moment for Greater Manchester. Voters are choosing not only who will lead the combined authority but also who will inherit responsibility for some of the region's most important public services. If the result confirms Astley's election, it would also mark the first time a woman has held the office, adding a new chapter to the history of Greater Manchester's devolved government.

The official declaration is expected once counting has concluded. Until then, the result remains subject to the completion of the count and formal confirmation by the returning officer.