Torbay Council Leaders Resolve Differences for Better Governance

Torbay councillors decided to end their disputes. Their arguments hurt the council’s image. A report last summer asked them to argue less and urged them to serve the public.

The report mentioned bad behavior from a few members and asked what legacy they wanted. Council meetings had anger and walkouts, showing that divisions ran deep.

Now, leaders agreed on a “Torbay Way.” They are sharing council roles fairly, including committee chairs and other posts, and parties are sharing power.

Opposition councillors control scrutiny committees fully. Council leader David Thomas called it collaborative and said it puts people first. He stated it was not easy.

Thomas said groups made big changes to agree, admitting heartache and upset happened. He still thinks it was worth it. Lib Dem leader Swithin Long described it as frustrating.

Long looks forward to improvements. He wants better public perception of the council. Independent leader Darren Cowell determined an agreement was possible.

Cowell anticipates future challenges, but says solid foundations are there. They have a base to build on and plan to work together now.