In a recent by-election for Cotswold District Council, the Conservative Party secured a seat in Blockley, resulting in the Green Party losing its sole representation on the council.
The election occurred following the resignation of Green Party councillor Clare Turner, who stepped down due to accepting a politically restricted position.
Tom Bradley, who serves as a county councillor at Shire Hall and leads the Conservative group on Gloucestershire County Council, won the seat with 431 votes. He significantly outpolled Liberal Democrat candidate Daniel Loveridge, who received 230 votes.
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Other candidates included Mathew Fincham of Reform UK with 59 votes, Green candidate Bob Eastoe with 54 votes, and Labour’s Joshua Littler-Jennings who garnered 14 votes.
Cllr Bradley expressed his honour at being elected to represent Blockley and Ebrington, stating, “I look forward to building on my strong track record as their county councillor to now also champion our area at CDC.” He added that the result indicated growing support for the Conservatives as they challenge Labour nationally and scrutinise Liberal Democrat administrations locally.
The new council composition stands at 22 Liberal Democrats, 11 Conservatives, and one Independent councillor.
Liberal Democrat Councillor Paul Hodgkinson, representing Chedworth and Churn Valley, commented that the loss of the Green Party’s only seat reflected a rapidly changing political landscape in the area.
Jane Portman, chief executive and returning officer of Cotswold District Council, thanked all candidates and voters for their participation. She noted, “We look forward to working with Cllr Bradley to represent the needs of residents, businesses and communities across the Blockley ward and the wider Cotswold district.”
The by-election saw a turnout of 37.4 per cent, reflecting moderate voter engagement in the ward.