A former Conservative councillor has urged residents to vote for Labour in order to get a better balance on Lichfield District Council.
Joanne Grange’s resignation in the Stowe ward has forced a by-election on September 27.
She quit the Conservative-controlled local authority after criticising the way planning rules were being enforced, claiming she no longer believed the council was representing the views of residents.
“As weird as it is, I’d urge residents to vote Labour,” she said. “The major problems with Lichfield District Council are caused by a power imbalance which means the leader and Cabinet make all the decisions with very little input.
“This is not healthy and does not give the best outcome.
“If staunch blue territory returns a Labour councillor, this will be a very clear message to the leadership that change is need.
“Seats are up again next May so this is a short term appointment.
“Having another member in the opposition group at the critical time for decision-making on the future of Friarsgate land would ensure that there is more pressure to involve residents.
“I truly believe voting red is the best thing for this election – and those are not words I ever thought I would be saying.”
Despite her calls, the former councillor insisted she had not changed her overall political loyalty, insisting she was merely focused on what was best for Lichfield.
“The residents aren’t getting good service and I don’t believe they will unless the council is better balanced between the parties so that there’s some dilution of the power wielded.”
Candidates for the Lichfield District Council Stowe ward by-election:
- Angela Lax (Conservatives)
- Donald Palmer (Labour)
- Richard Rathbone (Liberal Democrats)
