Residents in a South West London borough, often crowned the happiest place to live in the capital, have praised its clean streets and community spirit but voiced concerns about parking difficulties and the cost of running businesses. The Liberal Democrats have taken full control of Richmond Council after winning all 54 seats in the local elections on May 7, leaving no formal opposition.
Residents Applaud Council Services but Worry About Lack of Opposition
Locals on Teddington High Street told the Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS) they were generally happy with how the council ran services and maintained the area. However, some expressed unease about the absence of a formal opposition on the authority. Alex Sumner, 77, highlighted that ward councillors had effectively addressed safety issues caused by cyclists on pavements near her home. “They worked really hard to try and stop that happening and eventually had no cycling signs put on the pavement, and that has made a difference,” she said.
Yan, 62, and Richard, 68, also expressed satisfaction with the council’s upkeep. “We see them cleaning the streets a lot, they all look nice. There’s no leaves about, as you can see,” Yan said. Yet they noted the lack of opposition could weaken scrutiny. “Having said that, I’d rather live here than some other boroughs,” Richard added.
Businesses Struggle with High Costs and Parking Issues
Despite the borough’s appeal, local businesses reported increasing difficulties. One anonymous shopkeeper described Teddington as a “lovely place to live” with a strong community spirit, but said high rents and business rates were crippling trade. He criticised parking arrangements that allow drivers to leave cars for hours or days, blocking spaces for shoppers. “The rent is too high, over the phone [they] won’t give any support, and the parking is terrible... they are 24 hours on the road,” he said.
Raj Mudhar, 65, who has run Pristine Dry Cleaners for 25 years, agreed that rising costs were a challenge. “Everything is going up, but I can’t put the prices up,” he said. James O’Callaghan, 77, and Lori Jackson, 65, owners of Montpelier Antiques and Interiors, echoed these concerns. They noted that business rates had jumped from about £250 to £440 a month over two years for their small shop, despite a council discount. “You see what’s happening in Richmond in different areas [as] other shops have closed there. It’s so sad. It’s really depressing to see that,” Lori said. She urged the council to “keep the high street alive” and encourage community interaction.
Council Leader Pledges to Listen and Support High Streets
Lib Dem council leader Gareth Roberts acknowledged the challenges and promised to prioritise high street support over the next four years. “First and foremost, thank you to every resident who took part in these elections and to everyone who placed their trust in the Liberal Democrats. This result gives us another four years to deliver for Richmond upon Thames – and we will continue governing for every resident, regardless of how they voted,” he said.
Roberts emphasised that “good local government depends on listening, openness and being visible in our communities.” He noted that residents value clean streets, reliable services, and strong community engagement. “We’re proud of that record – but we’re not complacent,” he added. “Supporting vibrant, successful high streets will be a major priority over the next four years.” He highlighted that Teddington continues to perform strongly with low vacancy rates and new independent businesses opening.
Former Green Leader Warns Against Complacency
Richmond’s former Green leader Andrée Frieze, who did not stand for re-election, warned that having all 54 councillors from one party is “really bad for democracy” and for residents. She vowed the Greens would continue to scrutinise the Lib Dems and stand up for residents’ rights, environmental protection, and social justice.
The Lib Dems secured 51.5 per cent of the vote, far ahead of the Conservatives at 17.9 per cent, Greens at 16.1 per cent, Reform at 10 per cent, and Labour at 4.5 per cent. Overall turnout was 50.8 per cent, up from 47.7 per cent in 2022.
Richmond has consistently been named one of the happiest places to live in London and the UK, thanks to its access to nature, strong community, safety, and transport links. The borough topped Rightmove’s “happy at home” index in 2023 and was named the best place to live in the capital by The Times this year.
