Libdems and Greens take control of council

The Liberal Democrats and Green have formed a coalition to take control of East Herts District Council affer successes at the recent local elections.

Following the election, The Green Party is now the largest grouping with 19 councillors, whilst the Liberal Democrats have 10. The two parties will form a joint administration with a combined majority of 29 out of a total of 50 seats. The new administration will run the council over the next four years, marking the end of 28 years of Conservative control.

Green Party Councillor Ben Crystall becomes Leader of the Council, with Liberal Democrat Councillor Mione Goldspink becoming his deputy.

Councillor Crystall said: "I am confident that the Greens and the Liberal Democrats, working together in this joint administration, will provide strong and effective leadership for our communities. Our combined efforts will navigate the challenges ahead, deliver on residents’ priorities, and strive towards a better, more sustainable future for all in East Herts."

Councillor Goldspink said: "I am delighted that we have reached an agreement to work together and begin a new era of political leadership for East Herts. Our vision for the district will be underpinned by the principles that unite us – including environmental protection and sustainability – together with a strong focus on community engagement to ensure we remain responsive to the diverse needs of all our residents."

Other Executive Member portfolios have also been confirmed:

• Councillor Sarah Hopewell (Green) – Executive Member for Wellbeing
• Councillor Joseph Dumont (Liberal Democrat) – Executive Member for Corporate Services
• Councillor Vicky Glover-Ward (Green) – Executive Member for Planning and Growth 
• Councillor Tim Hoskin (Green) – Executive Member for Environmental Sustainability
• Councillor Carl Brittain (Green) – Executive Member for Financial Sustainability
• Councillor Alex Daar (Green) – Executive Member for Communities
• Councillor Chris Wilson (Liberal Democrat) – Executive Member for Resident Engagement 

In addition to the Executive roles, Councillor Martin Butcher was elected as the new Chair of the Council, and Councillor Calvin Horner was elected as the new Vice-Chair. As well as presiding over East Herts Full Council meetings, the Chair of the Council has a ceremonial role and represents the district at civic events. Councillor Butcher announced he will raise money for two charities: CPRE Hertfordshire and Community Alliance.

Cllr Butcher said: "I am honoured to represent East Herts and look forward to supporting our many local charities, businesses and community groups in their excellent work across the district. My chosen charities for the year, CPRE Hertfordshire and Community Alliance, do important work in our district and I am pleased to have the opportunity during my time in office to contribute to such worthy causes."

Vice-Chair, Councillor Calvin Horner, said: "I am pleased to be appointed Vice-Chair, and I am excited for the opportunity to support our Chair in his endeavours. East Herts’ voluntary sector continues to do amazing work and I look forward to celebrating the people behind the scenes who make our district a so-much-better place to be."

The remaining seats on the council are filled by 16 Consevative and 5 Labour councillors.