Conservatives Take Harborough Council, New Leader's Priorities

0:00It's April 23rd. You're listening to Lester News today, AI-powered local news. I'm Cory with the story. Conservatives have grabbed the reins at Harborough District Council, with Simon Wellband as their new leader. He cleansed the top spot Monday in a razor-thin vote, 17-16. His squad of 16 counselors ousted a coalition that's been running things since 2023, made up of liberal Democrats, labor, grains, and independence. Wellband's laying out clear priorities like tackling fly tipping, cleaner streets, better play areas, and propping up small businesses hit by rising costs. This power shift kicked off back in February when conservatives pushed through key changes to the coalition's budget that set the stage for their minority administration. To fund their plans, they're scrapping a $666,000 rewouting project near market Harborough, freeing up cash for frontline. Fixes. Outgoing liberal Democrat leader Phil Knowles isn't holding back his frustration. He slammed the timing, coming right after labor counselor David Gare, from

1:03Lutterworth East, passed away, which tipped the council balance to 16. Conservatives against 15 in opposition. Knowles called it a heavy lift for the new crew and promised tough scrutiny from the benches. Wellband paid respects to Gaier, but noted the meeting date was locked in weeks ahead, so they pressed on. He's pushing for local counselors to get more pull on decisions and grants, making sure funds hit every corner of the district fairly. Parish councils and community groups get his word on steady backing. With eyes on a Lutterworth by election that could shake things up further, Wellband says his team's gear to deliver fast on what residents want. Most...