Conservatives Win Harborough By-Election

The Conservatives have won the Logan ward by-election in Market Harborough.

David Page was elected with a majority of 103, taking the seat which had previously been held by an independent councillor.

The Green Party came second, followed by the Liberal Democrats, Reform UK and Labour.

The result means the Conservatives now hold 16 seats on Harborough District Council – the same number as the ruling coalition group.

However, no party has overall control, and despite being the largest group, the Conservatives still cannot run the council unless a deal is reached with other parties.

Cllr Page spoke to HFM after the result was declared:

Cllr Simon Whelband, leader of the Conservative group, said the result was a “decisive rejection” of the Liberal Democrats and sent a clear message about local opposition to Leicester City’s expansion plans.

He added that, with the council leader now having lost his majority, Phil Knowles “should consider his position.”

Council leader Phil Knowles defended the record of the ruling coalition, highlighting investments in leisure centres, community grants, and other services, and said the group intends to continue delivering for residents.

Full result

David Page, Conservative – 461

Jake Bolton, Green Party – 358

Marion Lewis, Liberal Democrats – 268

Barry Walton, Reform -195

Deborah Bennett, Labour – 42

Robin Lambert, Social Democratic Party – 4

Turnout: 30.5%.