Reform Birmingham may push for Clean Air Zone (pay-as-you-drive rules)

Reform UK has admitted there is “no viable route” for the party to take control of Birmingham City Council despite emerging as the largest group following last week’s local elections.

The party made major gains across the city on Thursday, with Jex Parkin elected in Kingstanding alongside around 22 other Reform UK councillors.

The results left Reform as the biggest single party on the authority, but still well short of the 51 seats needed for an outright majority.

In a statement issued after being selected as leader of the Reform UK group on the council, Parkin said voters had delivered a clear message demanding change.

He said: “The results in Birmingham are historic. From a standing start, Reform UK is now the largest party on Birmingham City Council. Voters are clearly demanding radical change.

“Although we are the largest party, other groups have made it clear that they refuse to work with us, meaning there is no viable route for Reform to take control of the council.

"Given that Birmingham has also clearly elected a left-wing majority, we have accepted that we will unfortunately, be unable to form an administration.

“We are committed to being a constructive opposition, ensuring the new leadership is effectively scrutinised in order to get our city back on track.”

The Liberal Democrats and Greens had already ruled out working with Reform UK in a coalition, leaving the party without a pathway to power at the council.

Even with Conservative support, the numbers would still fall short of a majority in the council chamber.

It will now be down to the remaining parties to form a working coalition.