A GREEN Councillor has crossed the Council chamber floor to join Solihull Conservatives.
In a shock move Councillor Bernadette Donnelly, for Kingshurst and Fordbridge has joined the ruling party on the authority.
The move increases the Conservatives majority to 31 seats on the council – the Green Party remain the main opposition party in the chamber with nine seats.
Councillor Ian Courts, chairman of Solihull Conservatives and leader of the Council, said: “I am delighted to announce that the Conservative group at Solihull Borough Council has approved a request by Green Party to join the Conservative Group.
“Bernadette will be a wonderful addition to our already dynamic and hard-working team. She has shown tremendous passion for representing her residents on many issues, and the borough as a whole.
“Bernadette has commented that, in recent months, it has become clear that she feels that the Conservative Party have the vision, passion and commitment necessary to deliver for Solihull borough and its residents.
“We all look forward to working with Bernadette, and I know she can’t wait to continue her hard work alongside her new colleague in Kingshurst and Fordbridge, Councillor David Cole.”
Coun Donnelly was elected as a Green in the 2022 local elections and she sits on the Economic Development, Managed Growth and Skills Scrutiny Board and the Stronger Communities and Neighbourhood Services Scrutiny Board.
Solihull Green Party leader, Max McLoughlin, said: “We are disappointed by Councillor Donnelly changing party. We thank her for her work in the community. Green Councillors in Solihull will continue to work hard for all residents across the borough.”
The Observer contacted Coun Donnelly for comment but had no response before our deadline.
