Richmond-upon-Thames: The borough with no opposition

Richmond-upon-Thames: The borough with no opposition17 May 2026ShareSaveAdd as preferred on GoogleJonny Harvey,BBC Politics LondonandAmy Clarke,LondonGetty ImagesRichmond-upon-Thames is the only London borough that spans both sides of the River ThamesMuch of the focus in London after this month's local elections was on the successes of the Greens and Reform, as well as Labour's struggles.But in one leafy west London borough, a very different story unfolded, with the Liberal Democrats winning every seat in every ward at the latest local elections.The party secured a complete sweep on 7 May 2026, retaining control of Richmond‑upon‑Thames Council, leaving the chamber without formal opposition.The Lib Dems now hold 54 seats (+6), with the Greens losing all five of their previous seats and the Conservatives losing their only seat.Such a decisive result has brought both praise and unease, with the party saying it is evidence of strong local backing, while also prompting questions about scrutiny, accountability and how effectively different voices are heard in what is now a one‑party borough.In 2022, both Lewisham and Barking and Dagenham were one-party boroughs under Labour control.Council leader Gareth Roberts says local voters backed the Liberal Democrats because of their record in power.He told BBC London Politics: "People like us as a council. They like the fact that we deliver good quality services for them and that we make sure that we have this relentless drive for good quality."They also like the fact that they see us all year round and not just this election time and that really matters to a lot of people."Richmond-upon-Thames council leader Gareth Roberts said they would be held accountableWith no opposition councillors in the chamber, questions have been raised about how the council will be held to account.When asked how residents can be sure the council is going to be held accountable, he said they would "try and incorporate as ma...