New Coalition Takes Control of Birmingham City Council: What It Means for Us

What's happened

Following the local elections in May, which left Birmingham City Council under no overall control, a new political administration has finally been agreed. At the council's AGM on 5 June 2026, a minority coalition was formed, led by Cllr Roger Harmer (Liberal Democrat) as the new Leader of the Council, with Cllr Julien Pritchard (Green Party) as Deputy Leader.

The new administration is a partnership comprising the Liberal Democrats, the Green Party, the Better Birmingham Independent Group, and the Birmingham Independent Group. In his opening statement, Cllr Harmer acknowledged the recent damage to Birmingham's reputation and pledged to "get the basics right," specifically highlighting the need to clear streets of litter and fly-tipping, and to resolve the long-running bin strike.

What it means for Erdington and Pype Hayes

For residents in Erdington and Pype Hayes, the immediate focus will be on whether this new coalition can deliver on its promises regarding basic services. The ongoing bin strike has caused significant disruption across our wards, and fly-tipping remains a persistent blight on our streets. The new administration's commitment to tackling these issues "head-on" is welcome, but words must translate into visible improvements on our doorsteps.

Furthermore, the coalition's approach to housing, transport, and local infrastructure will directly impact our community. With new cabinet members appointed across all portfolios, including City Operations and Housing, we will be watching closely to ensure that Erdington and Pype Hayes receive their fair share of attention and resources, rather than being overlooked in favour of other areas.

Where I stand

As your Reform UK councillor, my priority is always our ward. I welcome the fact that the council finally has a leadership team in place after a month of uncertainty. Cllr Harmer is right to say that the city needs steady leadership and a focus on the basics. However, I remain cautious. The coalition is made up of multiple groups with differing priorities, and maintaining unity while making tough financial decisions will be a significant challenge.

Some might argue that a coalition of smaller parties and independents is exactly what Birmingham needs to break away from the old two-party dominance. I agree that fresh perspectives are needed. But a minority administration is inherently fragile. My role, and the role of the Reform UK group as the largest single party on the council, is to provide robust, constructive opposition. We will not oppose for the sake of it, but we will hold this new leadership's feet to the fire. If they deliver on bins, fly-tipping, and protecting our community from the over-concentration of HMOs, they will have my support. If they fail, or if they waste taxpayers' money on vanity projects, I will call them out.

What happens next

The new cabinet will now begin taking control of their respective departments. Over the coming weeks, we expect to see their detailed plans for resolving the bin strike and addressing the council's financial challenges. I will be attending all full council meetings and relevant scrutiny committees to ensure the voices of Erdington and Pype Hayes residents are heard loud and clear.

My office will continue to monitor local service delivery closely. If you notice any changes—positive or negative—in your bin collections or street cleaning, please let us know.

Have your say

What do you think of the new council leadership? Do you believe they can fix the issues with our bins and streets? Register on the site to leave a comment below, vote in our ward forum poll, and let me know your priorities for the new administration.

Source: Birmingham City Council