Liberal Democrat Roger Harmer has been elected as the new leader of Birmingham City Council, marking the first time in the city's history that a Lib Dem councillor has taken the helm. He now leads Europe's largest local authority, with a budget of approximately £4.4 billion.
Ending the Bins Strike
One of Coun Harmer's top priorities is resolving the ongoing bins strike. He stated that the new coalition is "united by a vision of progress" and committed to tackling this pressing issue.
Road Safety and Enforcement
Coun Harmer criticised the current culture on Birmingham's roads, saying "you can do what you like and get away with it." His administration plans to create a "significant network" of moving traffic enforcement cameras and has secured an additional £25 million for road resurfacing.
Other Key Policies
The new leader also aims to extend museum opening hours, prioritise family housing over small apartments, and ensure deprived communities benefit from new investment. He emphasised the need for a "well-run council" where rules are followed and consequences exist for those who break them.
The Liberal Democrats formed a minority administration with the Green Party, Better Birmingham, and Birmingham Independent Groups. The leadership will rotate to the Green group leader in two years. Coun Harmer said the coalition shares a vision for a city "being turned around and up-and-coming."
