Lib Dem/Labour coalition to run Powys council

By Elgan Hearn, Local Democracy Reporter

Powys County Council is set to be run by a Liberal Democrat/Labour ruling coalition, it has been confirmed tonight.

Leaders of both parties have confirmed that they have joined hands to run the regional authority after this month’s election failed to let any one party gain a majority, with the Lib Dems winning the most seats.

The coalition between is also likely include Jeremy Thorp, the Green Party’s only councillor in Powys.

For nearly three weeks discussions and negotiations have been going on between James Gibson-Watt, Liberal Democrat Group Leader, and Labour leader, Matthew Dorrance, as well as other group leaders.

With 23 official Liberal Democrats, nine Labour councillors and one Green joining forces, that leaves the coalition with 33 councillors out of a total of 68 on the authority.

At tomorrow’s council annual meeting Cllr Gibson-Watt is expected to be elected as council leader.

The agreement between the Liberal Democrats and Labour will focus on a set of aims and objectives for the new council designed to deliver a fresh and distinctive path to meet the serious challenges ahead.

Cllr Gibson-Watt said: “This looks set to be a historic moment for Powys. Not since the county’s formation has it been run by anyone other than the independents in one form or another.

“The elections in May 2022 saw a huge change to the composition of the council. Progressive parties all gained seats, demonstrating a desire from the electorate for the council to change direction, culture and values.

“It is now the intention of myself and the Liberal Democrat Group to work with the Labour group to deliver this change in direction and drive the drastic improvement Powys needs.

“While there are differences between our parties we find that there is much on which we agree that gives us a firm foundation for a shared administration that builds a stronger, fairer, and greener future for our county.

“I’m excited to get on with the job and start delivering for the people of Powys.”

Cllr Dorrance added: “We want to help build a stronger, fairer, and greener future for Powys and our agreement sets out a road map to that future.

“I am very pleased that we have been able to work together to build consensus and agreement around a shared vision for the future where communities prosper, and the council works for families across the county.

“The challenge is immense, but we stand ready to serve.”

As it stands Powys Council is made up of:

Liberal Democrats – 23

Conservatives – 14

Non-affiliated – 13 (which includes Green Party)

Labour – 9

Independent group – 6

Plaid Cymru – 3.