The three Liberal Democrat councillors and two Green Party councillors on Newark and Sherwood District Council have formally withdrawn their support from the Labour-led administration.
The councillors say the decision ‘cites concerns over democratic integrity, broken promises, intimidation and environmental leadership.’
Liberal Democrat Cllr Keith Melton, former Climate Change Portfolio Holder, says:
“We will no longer be supporting the Labour-dominated administration under the current leadership as they appear to have lost their way, not paying sufficient attention to the democratic views of others. They also appear to have a blinkered view of the vital importance of the great environmental pressures facing us on both climate change and the threats of nature losses across the district,”
Cllr Emma Oldham, Green Party Group Leader, has also resigned from her cabinet role as Portfolio Holder for Climate and the Environment.
Reflecting on her decision, Cllr Oldham said:
“Stepping down from cabinet was not an easy choice. However, it had become an intimidating environment to work in, where I have experienced unacceptable behaviour from certain councillors. Every council member deserves to work in a system free from intimidation. This needs addressing.”
Cllr Oldham added:
“I am proud of the progress we have achieved for our residents, our environment and local wildlife. This was made possible through the tireless efforts of dedicated council officers.”
The Liberal Democrats and Greens have reaffirmed their commitment to a collaborative and inclusive approach to governance. Together, they will advocate for stronger climate action, biodiversity protection and democratic accountability.
Rooted in the principles of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), both parties will work to steer council decision-making in a positive direction that prioritises community engagement, positive workplaces and environmental ambitions for residents across the district.
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