The leadership of the Green Party in Forest of Dean District Council is under scrutiny as a vote of no confidence is set to be debated next week. The controversy centers on the council’s proposed blueprint to build 13,200 new homes across the district, including two new towns, which some claim has been developed in an undemocratic manner.
Independent Councillor John Francis, representing Longhope and Huntley, has initiated the no-confidence motion, citing a lack of meaningful engagement among councillors during the drafting of the local plan. He accuses the council leadership of sidelining members and neglecting opportunities for residents and parish councils to contribute.
“The process has excluded the views of many councillors and local communities,” said Cllr Francis. “There has been no proper forum for debate or consideration of alternative housing sites, despite the unprecedented government target increasing the number of homes to be built.”
The proposed plan includes developing a 3,500-home town at Glynchbrook in Redmarley, near junction 2 of the M50, and approximately 2,000 homes off the A40 in Churcham. Cllr Francis emphasizes that input from councillors is being sought too late in the consultation stage, rendering their contributions ineffective.
In contrast, Council Leader Adrian Birch and the Green administration defend the process, stating that the plan’s development has upheld democratic standards. “We value the integrity of the process and the contributions of all councillors,” Birch said. “We look forward to discussing these concerns in full council and remain confident in the support for our local plan, developed through the dedication of district officers and councillors.”
The upcoming council debate will be a pivotal moment for the leadership as they face mounting pressure over their handling of the district’s housing strategy.