Poole has its first Green councillor following a defection from the Liberal Democrats this week.
The change sees Councillor Rachel Pattinson-West, who represents Alderney and Bourne Valley, join the Green Party, marking the party’s first elected representative in Poole and adding to a shifting political picture across Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole.
During her time as a ward councillor, she has supported work to protect local heathland from summer fire risks and off-road damage, backed funding bids to address flooding at the community centre and Branksome Rec, and called for safer and more accessible routes for children travelling to school.
Explaining her decision, Councillor Pattinson-West said she was motivated by “hope” and spoke of concerns about how vulnerable people are treated in national politics, adding that she wanted to help build a fairer society rooted in dignity, respect and humanity.
She also said the move was not linked to any local disagreements, noting her respect for former colleagues and describing the decision as one based on personal values and direction.
Green group leader Councillor Chris Rigby said the defection showed increasing appetite for change and described Councillor Pattinson-West as principled, hardworking and committed to residents.
BCP Council confirmed it has received formal notification of the change and said the political balance of committees will be reviewed at the next full council meeting.
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