Reform UK has claimed a definitive local election victory, taking control of Lincolnshire County Council. Having secured 36 seats, a clear majority has been established. This victory is concurrent with Dame Andrea Jenkyns’ election as the county’s first mayor, a notable achievement for the party. Martin Hill, outgoing council leader of two decades, compared the transition to a ‘tidal wave of Reform’. Despite maintaining his position in the Folkingham Rural seat, Hill highlighted the national political discontentment that swayed the voters, especially related to concerns over immigration. This election presented a marked contrast to that of 2021, when the Conservatives maintained a majority with 54 seats. Reform UK demonstrated considerable growth in areas such as East Lindsey, Lincoln, Boston, and South Holland. This advancement led to the displacement of prominent Conservative figures, including Colin Davie from Ingoldmells Rural. Long-serving councillors Wendy Bowkett, Daniel McNally, Patricia Bradwell, and William Gray have also announced their decision to step down. Although the Liberal Democrats maintained two seats in Gainsborough and gained another three seats, marking them the second-largest party, Stamford West saw an impressive victory by Independent Richard Cleaver.
This article was developed from original reporting by BBC News.
