New “Green and Progressive Independents” group formed

The Green Party in Shropshire has joined forces with an independent councillor to form a new group.

New called the Green and Progressive Independents, the group consists of group leader Julian Dean (Porthill), Craig Emery (Selattyn and Gobowen), Duncan Kerr (Oswestry South), Chris Lemon (Radbrook) and Rachel Connolly (Bridgnorth West and Tasley).

Councillors Dean and Kerr regained their seats at their local elections earlier this month, while Cllr Lemon ensured that the Greens kept Radbrook after Cllr Julia Evans decided not to stand.

Cllr Emery, meanwhile lost out in the Gobowen, Selattyn & Weston Rhyn division to two Conservative candidates in 2021. However, four years later he was successful, winning 38.36% of the vote.

Cllr Connolly, meanwhile, ran as a Labour candidate in 2021, missing out to fellow party member Julia Buckley and the Conservatives’ Les Winwood.

However, following the death of Cllr Winwood, a by-election was held in October 2022, which Cllr Connolly won.

Prior to this year’s elections though, she stood down from the Labour Party due to “Shrewsbury-centred politics” and stood as an indepdenent instead. Her victory was the the only one from an independent candidate.

“Our group has a shared commitment to keeping the new council’s feet to the fire on a wide range of issues, from better public transport to nature recovery,” said Cllr Dean.

“Rachel is a champion for her community and by joining with us we will together be able to play a stronger role within the council.

“The new group will provide a useful forum for us to share experiences and assist each other in supporting our residents but will not instruct or ‘whip’ members when it comes to votes or policy discussions.

“Rachel will remain a truly independent councillor whilst the Green Party councillors will separately continue to promote our policies when appropriate.”

Cllr Connolly added: “I agree with Cllr Dean’s comments and welcome joining this new group for the upcoming new council.

“I look forward to working with councillors from other areas of Shropshire whilst always retaining my independence and ensuring that the residents of Bridgnorth West and Tasley are fully represented at Shropshire Council.”