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Former Reform UK Councillor Ashley Monk Joins Conservatives in Redditch
Former Reform UK Councillor Ashley Monk Joins Conservatives in Redditch
Ashley Monk, who served as an independent councillor after leaving Reform UK, has officially joined the Conservative Group at both Redditch Borough Council and Worcestershire County Council. The move follows his suspension from Reform UK and subsequent period as an independent, during which he retained a portfolio role in the local administration.
Ashley Monk has formally joined the Conservative Group at both Redditch Borough Council and Worcestershire County Council, marking a significant shift in his political alignment following his departure from Reform UK.
The local Conservative group announced the development with a statement expressing delight at welcoming Monk to their ranks. "Ashley’s decision to join our group marks an exciting new chapter, and we look forward to working together to represent the residents of Redditch and the wider county," the group said in its announcement.
Monk was initially elected to Worcestershire County Council in May 2025 as a Reform UK councillor for the Redditch West division. He subsequently won a seat on Redditch Borough Council in May 2026, representing the Batchley and Brockhill ward under the same party banner.
His tenure with Reform UK ended in June 2026 following an internal dispute. Monk stated that he had withdrawn his membership after being informed of his suspension from the party. At the time, he apologized to residents who had voted for him under the Reform UK banner and emphasized that his priority remained representing local people.
Despite leaving the party, Monk continued to serve as the Portfolio Holder for Housing and Communities within the Conservative-led administration at Redditch Borough Council. He had been appointed to this position in May 2026, following a change in council leadership when Conservative councillor Matt Dormer replaced Labour’s Sharon Harvey as council leader.
The latest announcement confirms that Monk has now formally integrated into the Conservative groups at both local authorities. In its social media statement, the Redditch Conservatives also highlighted Monk’s support for Kemi Badenoch in the national party leadership contest.
"We are also pleased to have Ashley’s support for Kemi Badenoch as Conservative Party Leader," the group stated. "With a clear focus on the future, strong values and a commitment to delivering for our communities, we look forward to building a positive future for the Conservative Party, both locally and nationally."
The group concluded by inviting supporters to welcome Monk to the Conservative team.
At the time of the announcement, Redditch Borough Council’s published councillor directory still listed Monk as an Independent, although the Conservatives’ confirmation indicates his move to their council groups is effective. The announcement did not specify the exact date on which Monk formally joined the groups or whether he has separately completed membership arrangements with the national Conservative Party.
L. Araujo--JDB
