The British National Party put up candidates in every ward, for the first time.[4] However, they secured no seats despite claiming that they were picking up votes from right wing Conservative supporters disaffected with David Cameron, particularly in middle class areas.[5] In the West Thurrock and South Stifford ward, Ken Daly stood for the BNP in protest at the treatment of his son's killer.[6]
The results of the election saw the Conservatives lose their overall majority on the council after losing 3 seats and only gaining one. The Labour party made a net gain of two seats, while the BNP came second in 6 seats after a strong rise in votes.[7] Overall turnout was 31% and after the election the balance of power on the council was held by 3 independents.[8]
After the election, the composition of the council was: