Labour saw another victory in Kent by re-taking control of Gravesham council after a brief period of No Overall Control.

In combination with to the party’s wins in Dover, Thanet and in neighbouring Medway, where Labour took control of the council from the Conservatives, re-establishing a foothold in Kent will feel like a significant moment for Keir Starmer’s party, given the importance of winning seats in the county if Labour is to secure a majority at the next general election.

The Conservatives currently hold 16 of 17 Kent constituencies, so any sign of the tide turning in favour of Labour will be seized upon by party activists.

Labour picked up four seats, taking two each from the Conservatives and independents to leave the seat distribution as follows:

• Labour: 22 seats
• Conservative: 17 seats
• Independents: 0 seats

Council leader John Burden (Rosherville, Labour) will be likely to continue as leader in a new majority administration. The council’s annual meeting is scheduled for Tuesday 16 May.

 

If you wish to discuss this council’s result in more detail, please contact [email protected]