A FORMER Labour councillor in Dudley who quit the party after becoming disillusioned with the new government’s ‘bleak vision’ is teaming up with the Lib Dems.

Cllr Andrew Tromans, who is now sits on the council as an independent, is forming a new group with the authority’s three Lib Dem members.

The quartet will be known as The Unity Group and says it will not be standing for election under that name but plans to be a strong opposition force in the council.

Cllr Tromans, said: “I have never been a fan of divisive, tribal politics especially in local government. I have long taken the view that councillors should try to work together where possible for the benefit of local communities. 

“I agree with the Dudley Liberal Democrat Group on many issues but where we have differences this will be handled respectfully.”

The Wollaston and Stourbridge Town councillor announced he had resigned the Labour whip on September 25 saying he had watched with ‘increasing alarm’ how the optimism of the party’s general election victory with a “bleak vision of continuity austerity with pensioners and the most vulnerable thrown into the firing line.”

Dudley’s Lib Dem leader, Cllr Ryan Priest, said: “I am a proud member of the Liberal Democrats, and I will defend my seat as a Liberal Democrat in 2028, but until then I intend to work collaboratively with members in the chamber of all parties and none to get the best possible deal for communities across the borough.

“Let this also be an olive branch to other members in the chamber, be that unhappy Conservatives tired of being whipped to back cuts, or disgruntled Labour members who want to see more robust scrutiny and opposition – you too have a home with us.”

Dudley Council has a total of 72 councillors, 34 Conservatives, 33 Labour members, four from the Unity Group and one independent.