Powys County Council is set to be led by the Liberal Democrats and Labour after no group won overall control during May's council elections

The Liberal Democrats surpassed the independents as the largest group and it is expected that group leader James Gibson-Watt will be elected as council leader at the AGM on Thursday morning (May 26).

Cllr Gibson-Watt said the partnership between the two parties will look to "drive the drastic improvement Powys County Council needs".

“This looks set to be a historic moment for the county Powys. Not since the county's formation has it been run by anyone other than the independents in one form or another," the Glasbury councillor said.

“The elections in May 2022 saw a huge change to the composition of Powys County Council. Progressive parties all gained seats, demonstrating a desire from the electorate for Powys County Council to change direction, culture and values."

Cllr Gibson-Watt added: “While there are differences between our parties we find that there is much on which we agree that gives us a firm foundation for a shared administration that builds a stronger, fairer and greener future for our county.

“I’m excited to get on with the job and start delivering for the people of Powys.”

Welsh Labour Group Leader Councillor Matthew Dorrance said the "challenge is immense, but we stand ready to serve”.

“We want to help build a stronger, fairer and greener future for Powys and our agreement sets out a road map to that future," the Brecon councillor said.

“I am very pleased that Welsh Labour and the Welsh Liberal Democrats have been able to work together to build consensus and agreement around a shared vision for the future where communities prosper, and the council works for families across the county."

The administration is likely to also include Powys' only Green Party councillor Jeremy Thorp who represents Forden and Montgomery.