Aylesbury Vale councillor defects to Conservatives after 'impressive' budget plan

Councillor Dean Field, who represents the Wendover, Halton and Stoke Mandeville ward, has announced he is leaving the Liberal Democrats to sit with the Conservative group on the authority.

He said his decision came after seeing first-hand how Conservative councillors were delivering a well-run council focused on residents, service delivery and value for money. Cllr Field said: “The residents of Wendover, Halton & Stoke Mandeville elected me to work on their behalf and ensure their concerns are heard.

“After careful consideration, I believe joining the Conservative Group will allow me to be more effective in delivering for my residents as part of a strong and experienced team focused on practical results.

“I have been particularly impressed by the way the Conservative Leader and Cabinet have managed the council’s finances responsibly, delivering a balanced budget despite significant reductions in government funding.

“I look forward to working with colleagues across Buckinghamshire Council to ensure we continue delivering the best possible outcomes for our communities.”

Cllr Steven Broadbent, leader of the Conservative Group on Buckinghamshire Council, welcomed Cllr Field to the group.

He said: “Dean is a committed councillor who is focussed on delivering for his residents. His full support for the council’s budget recognises the responsible way that our Conservative-run council has managed the county’s finances, protecting resident priorities with record investment into our roads and keeping weekly bin collections.

“All this despite the Labour Government deliberately taking £44.5 million in funding away from Buckinghamshire to send elsewhere in the country.

“Dean’s record in business, public service and charitable work will be a fantastic addition to the Conservative Group.”

He added: “This move strengthens the majority position of overall control for the Conservative group at Buckinghamshire Council and is testament to councillors from across the political spectrum recognising the hard work of our administration in meeting resident priorities.

“It is me and my Conservative colleagues who are seeking to enhance Buckinghamshire as a place to live, work, visit and study. We continue to welcome those who share our vision for our wonderful county.”

Councillor Field was elected to Buckinghamshire Council at the elections in May last year. Standing for the Liberal Democrats in Wendover, Halton and Stoke Mandeville, he topped the poll with 1,050 votes.

Liberal Democrat representatives have been contacted for comment.