Discontent Brewing

A Rift Emerges

Seven councillors have shaken the political landscape by resigning from the Conservative Party amidst a heated dispute over plans for a travellers’ site.

Unprecedented Action

All hailing from Rothwell Town Council, with two also holding seats on North Northamptonshire Council (NNC), the councillors’ mass resignation has sent shockwaves through the local political scene.

Reasons for Departure

Feeling Ignored

Expressing frustration, the councillors cited feeling consistently ignored by their party as a primary reason for their departure. They lamented that it had become “embarrassing to admit we represent the Conservative Party.”

A Clash of Priorities

At the heart of the disagreement lies NNC’s decision to allocate £1.3 million in its budget for a temporary travellers’ stopping site near junction three of the A14. The councillors strongly oppose this move, asserting that it undermines years of effort to enhance green spaces for both biodiversity and community well-being.

Disappointment Echoed

While the councillors have transitioned to independent status, their resignations have not gone unnoticed. The leader of NNC expressed disappointment, labeling their departure as “very disappointing.”

Vocal Opposition

Taking a Stand

Prior to their resignations, councillors Cedwien Brown and Joseph Smyth had already rebelled against the proposal during a council meeting, underscoring their staunch opposition to the travellers’ site.

 A Fractured Front

The departure of seven Conservative councillors highlights deep-seated divisions within the party regarding the contentious issue of travellers’ sites. As political tensions simmer, the fallout from this rift may have far-reaching implications for both local governance and the broader Conservative Party.