The Conservatives have regained control of Westminster City Council, marking a significant shift in one of the UK's most prominent boroughs. The victory, achieved on Thursday, May 7, has implications not only for local governance but also for major London-wide initiatives. The new administration, led by Councillor Paul Swaddle, has pledged to challenge Mayor Sadiq Khan's plans to pedestrianise Oxford Street, a key campaign promise. Swaddle has established a dedicated legal fighting fund to oppose the Mayor's use of a Mayoral Development Corporation (MDC) to bypass local council opposition. The MDC is a rarely-used planning power that allows the Mayor to take control of redevelopment projects. Khan aims to make the 1.2-mile stretch between Marble Arch and Tottenham Court Road car-free by the end of summer, at an estimated cost of £150 million.
Political Context and Recovery
The Conservative win in Westminster is seen as a crucial step in the party's recovery from the Labour landslide in the 2024 general elections. Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch visited Westminster the day after the elections, delivering a speech to party supporters. 'We are coming back to deliver a strong economy, we are coming back to deliver a stronger country, and we are coming back to get Britain working again,' she stated. The victory provides the Tories with a platform to demonstrate their policy agenda and rebuild their political standing.
Council Composition and Dynamics
Unlike many other London councils, which are fragmented among multiple parties, Westminster remains a two-party council. The Conservatives now hold 32 seats, while Labour has 22. This firm majority gives the Conservative administration a clear mandate to push through its policies. Conversely, the sizable Labour group can function as a unified opposition. In contrast, Croydon Council has no majority, with seats distributed among Conservatives (28), Greens (8), Labour (30), Liberal Democrats (2), and Reform (2). Westminster's unique composition allows for more decisive governance.
First 100 Days Agenda
Cllr Swaddle has outlined an ambitious first 100 days. Key initiatives include challenging the Mayor on Oxford Street, appointing a new Cabinet Member for Enforcement, and reviewing major road and street projects. Caroline Sargent has been appointed to oversee issues related to antisocial behaviour, illegal dumping of e-bikes and e-scooters, and problems with short-term lets. The council will also review every major council contract and examine proposals to make Regent Street, St James's, Waterloo Place, and the south side of Piccadilly Circus traffic-free. These actions signal a proactive approach to urban management and public space regulation.
The council's focus on enforcement includes a crackdown on e-bike and e-scooter dumping, which has become a nuisance in the borough. By targeting antisocial behaviour and illegal parking, the administration aims to improve quality of life for residents. The review of major road projects could lead to changes in traffic flow and pedestrian access, potentially affecting businesses and commuters. The legal challenge to the Oxford Street pedestrianisation may delay or alter the Mayor's plans, creating uncertainty for the project's timeline.
Overall, the Conservative takeover of Westminster Council represents a significant political and policy shift. The new administration's actions will be closely watched, as they could set precedents for other boroughs and influence the balance of power between local councils and the Mayor of London.
