Norfolk County Council elections were due to take place in May 2025, but they have been cancelled as part of local government reform and the linked devolution process. However, despite this, a by-election has now been called in the Marshland North division after the sitting councillor resigned—only to stand again under a different political party.
This decision comes at a cost. Holding a by-election now means that taxpayers will have to foot a £20,000 bill—money that could have been better spent on urgent pothole repairs or helping a local charity that is struggling to stay open. The Liberal Democrats believe this is an unnecessary and self-serving move at the public’s expense.
That being said, the by-election does provide an opportunity for local people to elect a representative who truly listens and takes action. The Liberal Democrats have selected Alan Holmes, a former borough councillor in West Norfolk, to stand in this election. Alan is determined to give residents a strong voice on the issues that matter most—whether it’s the state of our NHS, crumbling roads, or declining public services.
Since 2021, the Liberal Democrats have won three by-elections in West Norfolk, and this contest is shaping up to be a straight fight between the Conservatives and the Lib Dems. Many local residents have already spoken to a Liberal Democrat campaigner in the past year—often saying it was the first time in decades they had seen a politician making an effort in their community. Unlike the Conservatives, the Lib Dems work year-round, not just at election time.
Alan and the team are out listening to residents every day, but they need your help to win this seat. If you would like to support the campaign, please contact Cllr Rob Colwell at libdemrob@colwells.co.uk—or even better, join one of the upcoming action days before the 1st May election.
This by-election shouldn’t have needed to happen—but now that it’s here, it’s a real chance for Marshland North to elect a councillor who will stand up for the community.
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