Middleton set for by-election after MIP Councillor loses his seat

Wednesday, 18 September 2024 17:50

By David Murphy

Source: MIP Website - Councillor Peter Allonby

Councillor Peter Allonby, representing the Middleton Independents Party on Rochdale Borough Council, has been removed from office following six months of non-attendance at council meetings.

Councillor Peter Allonby of the Middleton Independents has been disqualified from Rochdale Borough Council after failing to attend any meetings for six consecutive months.

The council has officially declared his seat vacant, initiating the process for a by-election under the Local Government Act 1972. If no by-election is requested by local electors, the council will fill the seat by co-option.

This vacancy comes as a significant blow to the Middleton Independents, leaving only one party member remaining on the council. A Labour source has said that given the party’s recent decision to cut the Winter Fuel Payment, a move that has left many local residents worse off, the by-election result at this time is unknown.

Adding to the political uncertainty, questions are actively being asked within the Council about Councillor Elsie Blundell, who represents Balderstone and Kirkholt Ward. Blundell’s recent election as MP for Heywood and Middleton has led many Councillors and local constituents to ask when a by-election will be called to replace her on the council.

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