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Colchester Council power negotiations continue in town hall
The council has been run by a Liberal Democrat-led coalition with Labour and the Green Party over the past year.
Following the elections earlier this month, the Conservatives remain the majority party with 19 seats, with Labour and the Lib Dems holding 15 each and the Greens holding two.
A council insider told the Gazette they understand the alliance will continue for the next year with a Lib Dem councillor as leader.
But red tape has held up any announcement being made as to what happens next almost three weeks on from election night.
The coalition proposal is still being considered by the National Executive Committee of the Labour Party after the decision was taken away from local councillors.
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It comes just 48 hours before the council’s annual general meeting is to be held at the Old Library on Wednesday.
Labour leader Julie Young said: “We are still in negotiations with the other parties about forming a new administration.
“As the Lib Dems and Labour now have 15 seats each, we are discussing the best and fairest ways to allocate the different portfolios between the parties. We have until Wednesday to reach an agreement.
She added: “All power-sharing agreements require the agreement of the national party, this is absolutely routine.
“Once we conclude our discussions in Colchester, we’ll submit out agreement to the national party for confirmation.”
Lib Dem council leader David King said: “I very much hope in the coming days we can find a way acceptable to all parties that provide the continuity and stability that Colchester Council needs.
“I’m confident we can do this and I shall do all I can with my colleagues to see the continuation of what has worked for Colchester over many years.
“Our Labour colleagues have been great and equal partners.”
Conservative Group boss Paul Dundas branded the delays “deeply irresponsible” ahead of Wednesday’s meeting.
He said: “I haven’t even seen a seating plan, they haven’t issued where people are sitting.
“It is deeply unfair on the staff at the council because they have certain procedures they have to follow but they are being left in the lurch. It is deeply irresponsible.”
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