Before the election, the council was controlled by a coalition between the Liberal Democrats, with 12 seats, and Independents, with 10 seats.[2] The largest party was the Conservatives with 13 seats.[3] There was one vacancy following the death of Jane Barnby in February 2023.[4]
Torbay, along with Wyre Forest, were the only two councils gained by the Conservatives.[5] Conservative leader David Thomas was appointed leader of the council at the subsequent annual council meeting on 16 May 2023.[6]
Voter requirements
To vote, residents must have registered by midnight on 17 April.[7] Following the Elections Act 2022, voters at polling stations will need valid photo id. Voters who do not have one of the approved types of id can apply for a Voter Authority Certificate. The deadline for applying for this election is 5pm on 25 April.[7]
The statement of persons nominated was published on 5 April 2023.[9] Incumbent councillors are marked with an asterisk (*), except councillors running in a new ward who are marked with a dagger (†).