Reform UK candidate Sian Astley challenges Andy Burnham's housing record in Greater Manchester mayoral race

Sian Astley, a builder and former television presenter, has been selected by Reform UK as its candidate for the Greater Manchester mayoral by‑election. Her campaign promises include opening up contracts awarded by incumbent mayor Andy Burnham, reviewing regional social‑housing stock and addressing what she describes as a housing crisis.

During a Reform podcast on 6 July 2026, Astley claimed that Burnham had not built any social housing in Manchester during his tenure. Government and Independent figures contradict that assertion, showing that between 2017 and 2025 more than 18,000 affordable and social homes were completed in Greater Manchester, including 2,368 homes for social rent. The claim sparked criticism and a clarification from Reform that Astley meant the city had not built enough social housing recently.

The incident comes as Burnham, a Labour leader, is expected to become prime minister after securing overwhelming support from party MPs, adding a national dimension to the local contest.