Our local government landscape continues to evolve, and the May local elections have demonstrated just how quickly the political map can change.
We are seeing areas once considered politically settled having new voices, showing that Independent candidates and emerging smaller parties and groupings can gain the confidence of their residents.
Independent councillors as part of the LGA continue to grow in numbers and we now have over 2,500 councillors across England and Wales. That diversity of thought and leadership can only strengthen our ability to respond to the challenges facing our communities.
“We are seeing areas once considered politically settled having new voices”
At the same time, the rise in multi-party and minority-party controlled councils with Independents presents opportunities and responsibilities.
Collaboration, consensus-building and constructive leadership, often led by Independent councillors, will become increasingly important if councils are to deliver effectively for residents.
Even though our overall numbers have grown, we have also lost many long-serving councillors. Some have been heavily involved in the LGA, and I want to thank them for their contribution, knowledge and mentorship over many years.
If you are a newly elected Independent councillor entering local government, I want to welcome you to the group and let you know that we, as a group, will support, guide and encourage you.
Finally, I would like to wish our Green Party colleagues well as they establish their LGA group office.