Conservative councillor elected in Wyre Forest by-election

It was held on Tuesday (November 30), with David Ross being elected as the new district councillor for the Franche & Habberley North ward.

The vacant seat was made available after Independent Health Concern councillor Susie Griffiths stood down from the role.

Conservative candidate David Ross, who is also the leader of Kidderminster Town Council and a member of Worcestershire County Council, received 564 votes at the polls.

Doug Hine (Independent) received 198, Nigel Knowles (Labour Party) received 372, and Oliver Walker (Liberal Democrats) received 245.

The Conservatives now have 13 seats on Wyre Forest District Council, which is made up of 33 seats.

Councillor Ross said: "I'm absolutely delighted with my success last night in the election and I'd like to say a big thank you to all the voters for putting their confidence in me.

"I look forward to delivering on the promises I have made. To preserve the green belt to ensure we prioritise building on brown field site, and making sure the district council delivers on the services the residents are paying for.

"I'd like to thank all the team that has supported me and the district council for providing all the facilities last night."

Following the election, the Labour Group of Wyre Forest, which has two seats, announced it would be rejoining the Progressive Alliance on the council.

READ MORE: Labour rejoins Progressive Alliance on Wyre Forest council

The turnout for the vote was 18.3 per cent. 

Conservative Group Leader on WFDC Cllr. Marcus Hart says, “We are delighted as a group to increase our numbers on WFDC from 12 to 13 councillors and with David this will give us an even stronger voice.

"David is a great asset and I know he will serve the residents of Franche and Habberley North well.

"We were are the largest group on WFDC and will continue to stand up for all residents of the District on all issues and continue to hold the Health Concern, Labour, Green led Council to account.”