Political Changes at Sevenoaks District Council

Current Situation

Sevenoaks District Council is currently experiencing significant political upheaval. What was once a Conservative-controlled council has become a "No Overall Control" authority following major divisions within the Conservative group.

What Happened

In May 2025, tensions within the Conservative group came to a head when nine Conservative councillors broke away to form the "West Kent Independent Group." This followed internal leadership battles and disagreements over the council's direction.

The dramatic split was triggered by a public confrontation at the Council's Annual Meeting on 15th May, where Conservative former council leader Julia Thornton delivered a devastating critique of the current leadership. In her speech, she declared:

"We are now led by a leader who is more focused on internal politics than public service."

She went on to criticize how "Loyalty to the leader is valued above competence and experience, and above what is in the best interest of the residents of our district."

Thornton explained that their decision to break away "reflects a fundamental and growing disconnect between the group's direction and the values that we feel are essential for public service and responsible local governance."

This public row led to seven councillors, including Thornton herself, immediately forming the West Kent Independent Group, with two more joining within 48 hours.

How the Council Composition Changed

May 2023 Election Results:

• Conservatives: 33 councillors (majority control)
• Liberal Democrats: 14 councillors
• Greens: 4 councillors
• Independents: 3 councillors

Current Composition (May 2025):

• Conservatives: 24 councillors (minority administration)
• Liberal Democrats: 14 councillors (largest opposition group)
• West Kent Independents: 9 councillors (former Conservatives)
• Greens: 4 councillors
• Other Independents: 3 councillors

The Challenge Ahead

The council faces critical decisions in the coming years, including local government reorganisation, the legal obligation to adopt a new Local Plan, leisure facility renewal in Sevenoaks and Edenbridge, and waste collection reform. These require stable leadership and cross-party cooperation.

Unfortunately, discussions about forming a partnership have stalled, and the minority Conservative administration continues to operate without the broad support needed for effective governance.

Liberal Democrat Response

As the largest opposition group, the Liberal Democrats have proposed forming a Partnership Administration to provide stability and effective governance. Sevenoaks District Council serves many communities including Swanley, the Darent valley, Edenbridge and Westerham as well as the Sevenoaks Weald and Sevenoaks itself. Our proposed priorities include:

• Financial stability for the Council
• Concrete progress on net zero and combating climate change
• A new Local Plan 2040 that gives hope for those who need houses, coupled with the infrastructure, transport, health and education facilities that must accompany them
• Protection and support for the residents of Sevenoaks District in the transition to a unitary authority
• Help all in our communities facing cost of living pressures and with their well-being

Liberal Democrat Commitment

The Liberal Democrat Group remains committed to working with all parties to create the stable, effective leadership that Sevenoaks District residents deserve. We will continue pressing for the collaborative approach needed to tackle the significant challenges ahead.