A councillor has quit Bath & North East Somerset Council’s ruling Liberal Democrat group to become an Independent.
Councillor Ann Morgan | Photo provided
Ann Morgan was elected at the May 2023 local elections to represent the High Littleton ward, which includes Hallatrow and Farrington Gurney.
She had also stood for the Lib Dems in the Clutton & Farmborough ward in May 2019 when she came second, losing to Conservative Sally Davis.
In a statement, Councillor Morgan said: “My role as ward councillor for High Littleton, Hallatrow & Farrington Gurney is now independent and not affiliated to any political party.
“My commitment to the ward and my work supporting residents will be unaltered. As always, I am available to help residents with any issues I can. If any resident has questions about my decision or any other issues they need help or support with, they are very welcome to contact me.”
Asked why she had left the Lib Dems, who dominate the council with two-thirds of the seats, Councillor Morgan said there were “no specifics”.
B&NES Council leader Councillor Kevin Guy (Bathavon North) said: “Councillor Morgan informed us of her intention to resign from the Liberal Democrat group having been elected on our manifesto.
“Our focus remains very firmly on delivering our values and priorities throughout B&NES, to ensure local current issues are addressed whilst the sustainable inclusive future for our communities is promoted.”
Councillor Shaun Hughes, who represents Midsomer Norton North and is the spokesperson for the Independents on B&NES Council, told the Echo: “The Independent Group are delighted that Ann has chosen to join us.
“She has proven to be a strong and committed councillor for the communities of High Littleton, Hallatrow and Farrington Gurney.
“It can sometimes be challenging for political parties to place the needs of residents and smaller communities ahead of wider party priorities.
“Independent councillors are often best placed to represent our communities, free from party pressures and able to focus entirely on local needs, ambitions and concerns. We very much look forward to working alongside Ann in the future.”
The Liberal Democrats now have 39 councillors, while Labour have seven.
With Ann Morgan joining their ranks, the Independent Group’s numbers are up to five.
The breakaway Independents for B&NES group, which formed last year, has three councillors, as do the Greens.
The Conservatives – who six years ago were running the council – have two.
John Wimperis, Local Democracy Reporter
Additional reporting by Becky Feather
