Results declared in Broadland local elections 2023

Tory candidate and leader of Broadland Council, Shaun Vincent, was voted out of Plumstead ward in the elections held on May 4, with the votes being declared at the Norfolk Showground on May 5.

The party was already concerned given the close contest back in 2018 - and he was beaten by James Harvey from the Green Party, who was standing for the first time.

Mr Vincent said: “I’m disappointed with the outcome, but I'm very proud to have served my community as a district councillor for the last 16 years. I believe I’ve made a significant difference to a number of people’s lives.

“(It's) unfortunate for the impact the national picture has had on this election.”

Tory candidate and leader of Broadland Council, Shaun Vincent was voted out of Plumstead ward (Image: Aaron McMillan)

The Conservatives started the day with a 16-seat advantage over the Liberal Democrats, but have seen that taken a beating with a seven-seat loss.

Parties will have to work out and purpose a new leadership structure for the council.

James Harvey from The Green Party (Image: Aaron McMillan)

Sue Holland, leader of the Liberal Democrat Group at Broadland, said her party will look at exploring ways to get working.

“We feel that the residents of Broadland have rejected the Conservative party, and we will be looking to build a new outlook for the people and we will work with parties to do that.

“This is exciting, and an opportunity for us to do something.”

Sue Holland, leader of the Liberal Democrat Group at Broadland (Image: Aaron McMillan)

When pressed on whether a coalition was being looked at, the councillor commented, “I couldn’t say, all I know is we all want the best for Broadland.”

There were also gains for both Labour and the Greens, who gained six and two more seats each - with the former pulling off a complete swing of Thorpe St Andrew North West.

Broadland Liberal Democrats celebrate gains in the district election (Image: Aaron McMillan)