The leader of a Norfolk council could be toppled after a senior cabinet member declared his intention to challenge him for the post.
Councillor Alistair Beales has informed Terry Parish, who heads the ruling Independent group at West Norfolk Council, that he intends to stand against him this year.
The business portfolio holder's leadership bid has been revealed in an internal email in which he has said "timing could not be better" for an election among his group's members.
It is the latest upheaval at an authority which has been described as 'Norfolk's most cantankerous council'.
Mr Beales, a former Conservative who previously served as deputy leader, stated that he believes he has the "political experience" and "track record" of working with key figures to secure the best deal for WNC.
He says he intends to devise a 20-year vision for the council that will reshape the authority at a time when it is undergoing a period of change due to the retirement of its CEO and other senior officers.
In addition, he says he will strive to work with colleagues across party lines - something Mr Parish has been attacked for failing to do successfully by the Conservative group, although he disputes this.
Mr Beales said in the email to fellow Independent councillors: "This is a diverse and deeply talented group. I would look to harness all that talent for the benefit of our community. We can achieve much, and I would be honoured to lead you."
READ MORE: Strife at cranky council as rebel councillor who breached rules REFUSES to step down
Simon Ring has been proposed as Mr Beales' deputy leader if elected.
Terry Parish's Independent group, which was formed following the May 2023 local elections, has had some rocky moments since coming to power.
Alexandra Kemp, a cabinet member, dramatically quit after just two months due to being opposed to the direction of the leadership. She has since formed a separate group of independent councillors.
READ MORE: Turmoil at Norfolk council leads to members quitting
It is understood that Terry Parish has agreed for a vote to take place in the near future to decide who will lead the ruling coalition group, which is also made up of Green Party members as well as Independents.
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