Liberal Democrats Secure Balanced Partnership to Deliver for Rugby

14 May 2026

Liberal Democrats Secure Balanced Partnership to Deliver for Rugby

The Liberal Democrat Group on Rugby Borough Council has agreed to enter into a partnership administration with the Labour Group following the outcome of the recent local elections.

Under the agreement:

Labour will hold the position of Council Leader
The Liberal Democrats will hold the position of Deputy Leader
Cabinet responsibilities will be shared equally, with three Liberal Democrat and Labour portfolio holders

The Liberal Democrats say the agreement reflects the balanced result delivered by voters and will provide stablity, accountable leadership focused on delivering for residents across Rugby borough.

Statement from the Liberal Democrat Group

Cllr Jerry Roodhouse said:

“Residents voted for a balanced council and expect councillors to work constructively together in the interests of Rugby.

“This agreement ensures the Liberal Democrats will play a central role in decision-making, providing stability and leadership along with a strong voice for residents across the borough.

“We entered these discussions determined to secure a fair and balanced administration that reflects the election result and puts residents first. We now look forward to working together to deliver practical local priorities for Rugby.

“The Liberal Democrats will continue to champion strong local services, sound financial management, cleaner and safer communities, transparency in decision-making, and positive investment in Rugby.”

Why the Liberal Democrats Agreed to the Partnership

The Liberal Democrats said the partnership was agreed because no single party secured overall control of the council and residents expect cooperation, stability, and effective local leadership.

They said the agreement provides:

Stable and balanced leadership for the council
Shared accountability and constructive working
Direct Liberal Democrat influence over council priorities and decision-making
A clear alternative to political deadlock and instability

Liberal Democrat Priorities Within the Administration

The Liberal Democrats say their priorities within the administration will include:

Protecting the local services residents rely on
Improving transparency and accountability
Supporting local businesses and Rugby town centre regeneration
Delivering cleaner and safer neighbourhoods
Maintaining financial responsibility for taxpayers
Listening to local communities and parish councils
Promoting practical, evidence-based decision-making
Making a strong case for Rugby in Local Government Reform discussions

Cllr Isabelle McKenzie Deputy Leader of Liberal Democrat Group added:

“This agreement ensures Liberal Democrats will have a strong voice at the heart of the council administration, helping deliver balanced leadership and practical decision-making focused on residents.

“Residents voted for a balanced council and expect councillors to work together constructively. This partnership is focused on stability, responsibility, and delivering results for Rugby rather than political division.” This partnership is focused on stability, responsibility, and delivering for Rugby.”

we will focus on practical local leadership and delivering results rather than political division. Rugby Liberal Democrats Manifesto “Standing up for Rugby”