New coalition leadership appointed at Rugby Borough Council AGM

Cllr Robinson, Leader of the Labour Group, and Cllr Roodhouse, Leader of the Liberal Democrat Group, will lead the council under a new coalition partnership agreement between the two groups for the 2026/27 municipal year.
 
The coalition agreement sets out a shared commitment to delivering stable and effective leadership for Rugby Borough, with a focus on protecting and improving council services, strengthening governance and transparency, and ensuring the borough is well represented during ongoing discussions about local government reorganisation and devolution.
 
Key priorities outlined in the agreement include:

• Supporting a thriving, healthier, fairer and greener borough
• Improving customer service and resident experience
• Strengthening financial management and performance reporting
• Increasing transparency and accountability across the council
• Reviewing council spending and service delivery arrangements to ensure value for money
• Ensuring Rugby’s voice is strongly represented in discussions on local government reform
• Establishing a Rugby Future Governance Committee to consider the borough’s future governance and civic identity
• Promoting high standards of conduct, respect and professionalism across the council

Under the agreement, Cabinet positions will be shared equally between Labour and Liberal Democrat councillors.
 
Cllr Louise Robinson, Leader of Rugby Borough Council, said: “Today’s agreement gives Rugby Borough Council a clear basis for stable and effective leadership for the year ahead.
 
“Our focus is on working together in the best interests of residents, businesses and communities across the borough.
 
“Together, we want to protect and improve council services, strengthen transparency and accountability, and support a thriving, healthier, fairer and greener Rugby.”
 
Cllr Jerry Roodhouse, Deputy Leader of Rugby Borough Council, said: “This partnership is built on a shared commitment to responsible leadership, openness and better outcomes for residents.
 
“By working together constructively, we can improve the way the council serves residents, make sure decisions are clear and accountable, and keep Rugby’s voice strong as important changes in local government continue.”
 
The Leader has also appointed the following Cabinet members: 

• Cllr Claire Edwards – Cabinet Member for Communities, Housing and Safety
• Cllr Sam Edwards – Cabinet Member for Environment and Climate
• Cllr McKenzie – Cabinet Member for Growth and Investment
• Cllr Mistry – Cabinet Member for People, Resources and Governance
• Cllr O'Rourke – Cabinet Member for Partnerships, Health and Wellbeing Portfolio
• Cllr Pimms – Cabinet Member for Customers and Digital 

The full coalition agreement has been published on the council website at rugby.gov.uk/coalitionagreement.