22/05/2026
On 7th May, the Liberal Democrats won 23 seats in the county council elections, joint equal with Reform. We have demonstrated once again, after a string of by-election wins in 2025, that we are the only party that has the depth of support in West Sussex to stop Reform bringing the chaos they’ve brought to Kent, Staffordshire and beyond.
Today, following confirmation at the Annual Meeting of West Sussex County Council, we are leading a joint administration called “Alliance for West Sussex”.
As soon as the results were announced, Liberal Democrats worked to bring together councillors who are willing to work hard and collaboratively for the benefit of our residents.
“Alliance for West Sussex” is created through a formal agreement that will see the Council led by Liberal Democrats and supported by Independent, Green and Labour councillors to provide essential services for our residents and communities and to ensure a smooth transition to the proposed new unitary authorities over the next two years. The agreement sees the parties commit to act in the best interests of residents, reflect their views and aim to create a better West Sussex.
Decades of Conservative control have seen devastating failures in children’s social care and the fire service, huge IT overspend and the ongoing failure to maintain our roads, followed by a desperate attempt to deny the elections and cling on to power.
Speaking following his appointment as Leader of West Sussex County Council, Cllr Jay Mercer said:
“It is a tough time for local government – but we are determined to make a difference on the issues that matter to you. That is why today I am proud to announce the formation of the Alliance for West Sussex, led by Liberal Democrats and working for you.
You may not see changes tomorrow, but you will see changes soon and we promise we will work hard for you every day. The Liberal Democrats commit to work together with our Alliance partners on your behalf, to deliver the essential services you rely on, to unpick the legacy of Conservative failings and to ensure Reform cannot bring chaos to West Sussex.”
When asked for her reaction to the new administration at West Sussex County Council, Jess Brown-Fuller, Member of Parliament for Chichester said:
“I want to say congratulations to the new Councillors at West Sussex County Council, it takes commitment to put yourself forward to represent your community.
This new administration brings an opportunity for positive change at West Sussex County Council, and with the Liberal Democrats at the helm of this progressive administration, County Hall can focus on prioritising what matters most to residents. I look forward to working with Jay and other members of the County Council to deliver on the priorities of residents through stronger services, upgrades to infrastructure and putting our communities first.”
