Negotiations have begun to shape Dudley Council's new look after Reform UK's dramatic gains in the local elections. Politicians are now engaging in horse trading to decide who does what in the local authority following the massive changes.
Election Results and Council Makeup
Despite Reform UK making significant gains, the Conservatives remain the largest group in the council chamber with 27 elected members. Before the election, the Tories controlled the 72-seat authority as a minority administration with 33 councillors, relying on Liberal Democrat support for crucial votes like the budget.
Reform UK now has 23 councillors, replacing Labour as the second largest group. Labour holds 15 seats, the Liberal Democrats have four, and The Black Country group has three councillors. No party has an overall majority, meaning deals must be struck between groups to ensure the council can operate effectively.
Conservative Leader's Stance
Dudley's Conservative leader, Cllr Patrick Harley, expressed confidence in forming the next administration. He said: "Over the years I have gone through many transformations on this authority and I am confident we will still form the next administration and carry on moving this borough in the right direction." Cllr Harley is not ruling out any options in negotiations, adding: "I have worked with Labour before, Lib Dems and I am sure I can work with any party that wants to put sensible proposals forward."
Reform UK's Position
Reform UK performed beyond their own expectations in the May 7 elections. Cllr Shaun Keasey, the Reform group leader, is not worried about potential difficulties of working with other groups. Speaking on election night, he said: "It's up to them, we would probably be quite happy until 2027 but what we have got to think of is the residents of Dudley. They want a council and a council chamber that puts their interests first, it's a bit early to say what's going to happen but we are going to have to have conversations to make sure we put Dudley and its residents first." Reform may be content to bide their time until the 2027 poll, when they believe it will be possible to take control in Dudley.
