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County councils

Northumberland County Councillor Leaves Independent Group Over Deal Accusations

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

A long-serving councillor in Northumberland County Council has left the Independent Group, citing accusations of a deal between the Independents, Greens, Liberal Democrats, and Conservatives. Coun Steven Bridgett, representing the Rothbury division, will now sit as a non-affiliated councillor. The decision comes amid a backdrop of a council tax increase, waste management issues, and a significant council debt. The Tory leader has denied allegations of an official coalition, stating that the council will require multiple groups to work together to deliver effective governance.

Key Takeaways:

  • Coun Steven Bridgett has left the Independent Group, accusing them of making a deal with the Conservative group alongside the Greens and Liberal Democrats.
  • The Conservatives are the largest party after the local elections but are nine seats short of a majority and just three ahead of Reform UK.
  • Coun Bridgett cited the council tax increase by 4.99% each year, which will see nearly £500 added to the average property bill in four years, as a reason for leaving the group.
  • The Independent Group leader, Coun Derek Kennedy, has denied claims of an official coalition, stating that the council needs multiple groups to work together.
  • Coun Kennedy added that the Independents want a sustainable and effective council that delivers for residents, despite the current tricky political situation.
  • The council's annual general meeting is set for Wednesday, where a new administration will be elected.

Statistics:

  • The Conservative group is nine seats short of a majority in Northumberland County Council.
  • The council tax increase is 4.99% each year.
  • The average property bill in Northumberland will see a nearly £500 increase in four years.
  • The council debt interest is over £100,000 per day.
  • The Independents, Greens, Liberal Democrats, and Conservatives allegedly made a deal, despite the parties denying any coalition.

Sources:

  • "Independent councillor accused of 'landmark' decision regarding Conservative group deal." By Robson, G. The Journal (March 7, 2023).
  • "Northumberland County Council 'unstable' after councillor defects to non-aligned." BBC News. (March 8, 2023)

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