Liberal Democrats make historic gains in local elections

Following 2024's local elections, where the Liberal Democrats made historic gains and won in Labour's heartland, Lib Dem Group Leader Councillor Clare Smalley is set to be Leader of the Opposition at City of Lincoln Council. 

Councillor Clare Smalley will serve as Leader of the Opposition for the 2024/2025 municipal year, with the Conservative Group nominating for 2025/2026.

Cllr Clare Smalley commented: "The Liberal Democrats have had a fantastic set of elections in Lincoln. We’ve gained council seats for the fourth year in a row and are winning in Labour's heartland.

"I am proud to lead the Liberal Democrats as we take over the task of leading the opposition - the first time in the council’s history we have held this responsibility.

"The Labour Council can count on the support of the Liberal Democrats in any measures which make Lincoln cleaner, safer and more prosperous.

"However, we will be robustly scrutinising the performance of the Labour administration. The past few years has seen Lincoln Labour lose their way; from the cancellation of the Christmas Market, flytipping and graffiti becoming endemic and frontline services in tatters. Residents are fed up of Labour’s vanity projects, paying more for less and decisions being taken behind closed doors.

“Lincoln Labour’s decision to swap Ric for Naomi is however a signal to residents of more of the same. After a decade of Labour mismanagement at City Hall, continuity just won’t cut it.”