Councillor Gareth Baron, the Independent councillor for Whitworth and current Mayor of Whitworth, has announced his intention to join the Reform UK party after handing over the mayoral chains in May.
In a statement posted on Facebook, Councillor Baron, 42, said he would remain an Independent until the end of his mayoral term but plans to officially align with Reform UK shortly after. The councillor, who has represented Whitworth as an Independent for the past three years, cited growing national frustrations and local neglect as reasons behind the move.
“I’ve spent the last three years being Indy. Always did and always will vote on what matters to Whitworth folk,” he said. “I live here too. Now, as a person, resident and local councillor I feel that we/I need to go for Reform. I owe it to everyone to explain why.”
In his post, Cllr Baron outlined a number of issues that have shaped his decision, both at the local and national level. On a macro level, he cited the struggle to access GP appointments, insufficient police presence in the area, and soaring housing demand pushing locals out of the community.
He also voiced strong criticism of the current local government setup, which he described as “inadequate,” and claimed Whitworth is increasingly forgotten in the broader governance of Rossendale. Looking ahead, he warned that existing councils may soon be dissolved in favour of a new Lancashire-wide “super council”.
At the national level, Cllr Baron expressed support for a pause on immigration to allow the country to manage existing applications and resources. He called for tougher sentencing laws, more prison space, and a fairer welfare system that supports those unable to work while expecting contributions from those who can.
“I want to build up the UK Armed Forces to a standard where we can be a confident voice on the world stage,” he added.
Cllr Baron acknowledged the decision may provoke criticism, but asked for respectful and reasoned discourse:
“I’m prepared for the backlash I will get from some people, but would ask if we share our political opinions both locally and nationally that we stay passionate, logical and not personal.”
He concluded his message by stating that he feels both major political parties, Labour and the Conservatives, have failed to deliver meaningful change for the public.
“Labour and the Conservatives have done little for me or you – it’s time for a change and I’m up for that.”
Baron’s planned defection will mark a rare shift for Whitworth’s local politics and could reflect broader sentiments in traditionally Labour-leaning areas where voters are seeking alternatives outside the established parties. Reform UK, founded as the Brexit Party, has increasingly positioned itself as a right-leaning challenger to both Labour and the Conservatives.
No by-election is expected as Baron will complete his current term before changing political affiliation.
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