Kent County Councillors quit Reform UK for new right-wing party as Restore Britain shakes local politics

A significant political shift has unfolded in Kent local government after seven former Reform UK councillors officially broke ranks to join Restore Britain, a newly launched right-wing political party. The move has led to the formation of a distinct council group on Kent County Council, marking one of the most notable realignments in the authority’s recent history.

The councillors’ defection underscores growing internal tensions within Reform UK and highlights the emergence of Restore Britain as a new force seeking space on the right of British politics.

Seven Councillors Join Restore Britain After Reform UK Fallout

The seven Kent councillors who have joined Restore Britain are Maxine Fothergill, Robert Ford, Paul Thomas, Dean Burns, Isabella Kemp, Brian Black and Oliver Bradshaw. Six of them were expelled from Reform UK last year, while one had already left the party.

Their decision follows the official launch of Restore Britain by Rupert Lowe, who announced the development on social media, describing it as “a very important day” for the new party and signalling that more defections could follow nationwide.

With the numbers required to form a group, Restore Britain will now operate formally within Kent County Council, giving the party an immediate local government foothold.

Reform UK Responds With Sharp Criticism

Reform UK reacted swiftly and dismissively to the announcement. A party source described the departing councillors as “dregs” and stressed that six of them had already been expelled, arguing their departure reflected disciplinary issues rather than ideological principle.

The response highlights the increasingly fractious environment within Reform UK, which has seen multiple suspensions, expulsions, and resignations over the past year amid internal disputes and public controversies involving councillors and MPs.

What Is Restore Britain and What Does It Stand For?

Restore Britain was initially launched as a political movement before transitioning into an umbrella party. Led by Rupert Lowe, who currently sits as an independent MP, the party positions itself to the right of Reform UK and emphasizes what Lowe describes as “independence of mind.”

Political analysts suggest Restore Britain aims to attract disaffected Reform UK members and voters who feel the party under Nigel Farage has become too cautious or centralized.

However, the party has already generated controversy. Commentators have criticised some of its early policy positions and messaging, arguing they risk deepening cultural and religious divisions, criticism that could shape how the party is received by both voters and local councils.

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Why Kent Matters in the Wider Political Picture

Kent is a strategically important county in English politics, often seen as a bellwether for right-leaning voter sentiment. The formation of a Restore Britain group within Kent County Council gives the party credibility and visibility at a local level, something most new parties struggle to achieve.

For Reform UK, the loss of councillors in Kent adds to concerns about organisational stability ahead of future local and national elections. For Restore Britain, it provides momentum and proof that the party can translate online and media attention into real political representation.

Political Analysts Warn of Further Fragmentation

Observers say the development reflects a broader fragmentation on the UK right, with smaller parties competing for similar voter bases. While Lowe believes there is “room for another party,” critics argue that further splintering could dilute electoral influence rather than strengthen it.

Whether Restore Britain can expand beyond Kent, or whether it remains a protest vehicle for former Reform UK members, will become clearer in the coming months as more councillors and activists declare their allegiances.

For now, Kent County Council has become the first testing ground for this new political experiment.

FAQ

Why did Kent County councillors leave Reform UK?

The councillors left after internal disputes and expulsions within Reform UK. Many say the party no longer represented their political direction, prompting them to join Restore Britain.

How many councillors joined Restore Britain?

Seven councillors from Kent County Council have joined Restore Britain and formed an official group.

What is Restore Britain?

Restore Britain is a newly launched right-wing political party founded by Rupert Lowe, positioning itself to the right of Reform UK with a focus on independence from established party structures.

Who is Rupert Lowe?

Rupert Lowe is the MP for Great Yarmouth and the founder of Restore Britain. He currently serves as an independent following his suspension from Reform UK.

Does this affect Kent County Council control?

The move does not immediately change control of the council, but it alters group dynamics and could influence future votes and coalitions.

Is Reform UK losing members elsewhere?

Reform UK has experienced multiple suspensions, expulsions, and resignations across the country, suggesting wider internal challenges.

Will more councillors join Restore Britain?

Rupert Lowe has indicated that more defections are expected, but no further names have been officially confirmed.