West Norfolk Council leader Terry Parish could be toppled as Alistair Beales announces intention to stand against him

The leader of West Norfolk Council could be toppled after a senior cabinet member declared his intention to challenge him for the post.

Cabinet member Alistair Beales has informed Cllr Terry Parish, who heads the ruling Independent group at the borough council, that he intends to stand against him this year.

The business portfolio holder’s leadership bid has been revealed in an internal email in which he said “timing could not be better” for an election among his group’s members.

Cllr Beales, a former Conservative who previously served as deputy leader, stated that he believes he has the “political experience” and “track record” of working with key figures to secure the best deal for the authority.

He says he intends to devise a 20-year vision for the council that will reshape the authority at a time when it is undergoing a period of change due to the retirement of its CEO and other senior officers.

In addition, he says he will strive to work with colleagues across party lines – something Cllr Parish has been attacked for failing to do successfully by the Conservative group, although he disputes this.

Cllr Beales said in the email to fellow Independent councillors: “This is a diverse and deeply talented group. I would look to harness all that talent for the benefit of our community. We can achieve much, and I would be honoured to lead you.”

Fellow cabinet member Cllr Simon Ring has been proposed as Cllr Beales’ deputy leader if he is elected.

Cllr Parish’s Independent group was formed following the May 2023 local elections, has had some rocky moments since coming to power.

It is believed that he has agreed for a vote to take place in the near future to decide who will lead the ruling coalition group, which is also made up of Green and Liberal Democrat members as well as Independents.

The Lynn News contacted Cllr Parish for comment, but he did not wish to provide one at this stage.

It is likely that any vote on the borough council leadership will take place at the authority’s annual meeting in the middle of next month.

That meeting is scheduled for May 16. It is understood that a vote would be between members of the Independent-led administration.

Additional reporting by Kris Johnston