A councillor has defected from Labour to the Greens on Stroud District Council, hitting out at her party's leadership for failing to address her concerns.

The announcement that Karen McKeown, who represents Rodborough, is switching came at SDC's annual meeting on May 17.

Karen McKeown said in a statement: "I have tendered my resignation from the Labour group on Stroud District Council.

"For a considerable time, I have been concerned about the shortfalls in the structure, leadership and governance to ensure that the people of Stroud District receive the best possible services.

"Although I have raised my concerns directly with the current and previous leaders, the will to listen to this challenge and consider change has not been forthcoming.

"Therefore I have been left concerned that I am not able to represent the residents of my ward to the best of my ability.

"However, during my time on Stroud District Council, I have been consistently impressed by the work of the Green Party group on the council, including their contribution to consensual politics and placing the needs of the residents above party dogma.

"With strong leadership, dynamism and ability to think of creative solutions, the Green Party group responds effectively to the changing needs of the district.

"My personal beliefs also align well with the principles of the party. As a result, I have decided that I can best serve the electors of Rodborough, and the whole of the district, by becoming a member of the Green Party group and serve as a Green Party councillor.

"I can understand that some of those who voted for me in 2016 will be disappointed at my change of party and not to be represented by a Labour councillor.

"I am really distressed at leaving a party where I have spent most of my adult life. However, I have spent much time considering the best way forward so that I serve my community and ensure that the council uses it limited resources in the best way possible.

"I would be happy to discuss this directly with anyone who may wish to have further information and my resignation letter is also available on request.

"I would personally like to thank the officers of Stroud Constituency Labour Party who have dealt with this sensitive and difficult situation with professionalism, objectivity and complete integrity."

A statement from Cllr Doina Cornell, leader of the SDC Labour Party Group, and Cllr Steve Lydon has been issued in response to Cllr McKeown's resignation.

“Cllr Karen McKeown, elected as a Labour Cllr for Rodborough in 2016, has informed the Stroud District Council Labour group that she has resigned from the Labour group to now join the Green group.

"Initially, we were led to believe she was to become an Independent councillor.

"The Labour group would like to thank Karen for her work and contributions to our Labour led council.

The SDC Labour group will continue to strive to serve and meet the needs of all residents and businesses throughout the District, based on our principles of fairness and equality."
Doina Cornell SDC Labour Group Leader 
Steve Lydon SDC Labour Group Press Officer