The new political make-up of West Northamptonshire Council is 42 Reform councillors, 17 Conservatives, nine Labour, six Liberal Democrats – and two Independent councillors.
The Tories had been in control of the council since the first elections for the authority in 2021, but lost 35 seats and with 17 seats make up the largest opposition group.
Dan Lister, the Conservatives group leader, told the meeting: “We will engage constructively when your initiatives show tangible benefit, but we will oppose any measures that risk fiscal imprudence, undermine essential services or favour short term gain over long term stability.”
Labour came third in the election in May after dropping nine seats and holding nine.
Sally Keeble, the group leader, told the meeting Labour would not support the appointment of the leader, adding: “Normally with a party leader comes a party manifesto in this instance it has not been forthcoming.
“We the council members, the electorate and I suspect the officers have not seen the detail of how Reform intends to run West Northamptonshire what its policies are for the services that are so important to the wellbeing of everyone who lives here.”
The Liberal Democrats gained two seats – increasing their councillors to six.
Group leader Jonathan Harris reminded councillors of their duty to uphold laws including the Equality Act 2010.
“This duty requires councils to eliminate discrimination, advance equality and foster good relations this is a legal requirement,” he said.
“Weaponising difference, demonising diversity and scapegoating the other is deeply destructive and will be called out.”
