Following the announcement, the council's Alliance will consist of 12 Liberal Democrat councillors, 10 Green Party councillors, and one independent councillor, securing 23 out of the council's 45 seats. The Alliance has accepted the Labour councillors' departure and stated its commitment to cross-party cooperation and delivering services for residents and businesses across Wealden.
This change in the Alliance's membership also necessitates a change within the Cabinet, with Councillor Manvell stepping down from his role. A Cabinet reshuffle is expected and will be announced in due course.
Prior to Labour's withdrawal, the Alliance for Wealden comprised 25 members, including the two Labour councillors. The remaining 23 members now provide the Alliance with a one-seat majority on the 45-member council.
It was also noted that Councillor Coleman has joined the Liberal Democrats, having previously been a Green Party councillor. This shift has resulted in the Alliance's Green Party membership decreasing from 11 to 10 councillors, while its Liberal Democrat membership has increased from 11 to 12. The Alliance also includes one independent councillor, Councillor Daniel Brookbank MBE.
