Different groups with the same aim for West Norfolk
In the weekly ‘From The Newsroom’ column, Jeremy Ransome looks at the balance of power at West Norfolk Council...
Over the last few days some very important conversations have been taking place as local politicians have come together to try to determine the leadership of West Norfolk Council over the next four years.
The Conservatives, who were leading the borough council, have 21 seats, whereas 28 are needed to lead. The independents come next with 18, whereas the local Labour Party came in with 11.
It seems a coalition will be formed to run the council, but last week a new ‘Independent Partnership’ was formed between the independent councillors, the Greens and the Lib Dems, with their number amounting to 23. Still not enough to rule on their own but now the largest group. So, who’s going to form a coalition and dos it matter, as long as the council performs effectively?
Although the Conservatives as a whole received a real kicking all over the UK in the recent elections, the local Tory group is certainly a million miles from the sleaze, controversy and cronyism the Government has been accused of.
There’s always going to be complaints against councils, and some would say being involved is a thankless task, but I’ve not heard many moan about waste collection, the town centre thrives more than most and they’ve certainly put on some smashing events to bring people into our towns.
On the other hand, a new group of people and ideas may be good for the borough. That’s certainly what all but the Conservatives will be saying. One thing I will say, though, is that I’ve chatted to councillors from all the groups and the majority care deeply for the borough. Whoever ends up in power, I believe, will put the people first.
Most recent leader Stuart Dark said something to me last year which resonated. He compared local government to a car journey, with the opposite parties the husband and wife. They may argue about directions but, ultimately, they both want to get to the same place.
