Taking control at Mid Sussex District Council

We are delighted to announce that Mid Sussex District Council will be led by the Liberal Democrats. We have formed a Joint Administration with a Group of four Independent councillors.

At Annual Council last night, Liberal Democrat, Cllr Robert Eggleston was elected as Leader of the Council. He will be supported in the Cabinet by three Liberal Democrats (Cllr Alison Bennett, Cllr Anne-Marie Cooke and Cllr Chris Hobbs), and one Independent, Cllr Ian Gibson.

The Joint Administration has been formed after the Liberal Democrats became the largest party on the Council with twenty councillors, bringing to an end twenty-four years of Conservative rule. Just eight years ago, the Conservatives held every seat on the District Council and dominated the politics of Mid Sussex. Even four years ago, the idea that Mid Sussex might move into No Overall Control was unthinkable to many. We have turned those preconceptions upside down.

Looking ahead, we want to change the culture of Mid Sussex District Council.

We will strive to work collaboratively with councillors of all political persuasions, and make the most of the expertise that exists within the Council Chamber. Delivering change will not be a quick or easy task and will be constrained by government policy and what we have inherited from the outgoing Conservative Administration. However, residents have voted for change, and we are determined that the new Administration will fight for the interests of residents.

Whether you are from East Grinstead in the north, or Pyecombe in the south, Scaynes Hill in the east or Bolney in the west, we are in your corner and our Cabinet has councillors from all parts of the District ready to speak for you.

Thank you to all our members and supporters who contributed towards this achievement, and above all to everyone who voted Lib Dem be it as long standing Liberal Democrat or those who trusted us with their vote for the first time.

With a general election expected in 2024, we will continue to campaign for a fair deal for Mid Sussex. MSDC's new Deputy Leader, Cllr Alison Bennett, will be the Liberal Democrat candidate in Mid Sussex.

These local elections are a sign that the Liberal Democrats can challenge and beat the Conservatives here, and we will go into the general election knowing that we can win.