The Liberal Democrat leader of St Albans City & District Council has dubbed yesterday's by-election "an improved result for the Lib Dems", despite the seat being won by the Green Party.

Cllr Chris White has also accused the Greens of "grandstanding" and "half-baked campaigns".

Juliet Voisey was elected as a councillor last night (Tuesday, June 13) following a by-election in the city's St Peters ward.

The election followed the resignation of Liberal Democrat councillor Danny Clare, and resulted in the Green Party being awarded a third seat on the council.

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After being elected, Cllr Juliet Voisey said: "I’m overwhelmed - thank you to everyone who voted for me.

Herts Advertiser: Newly elected Green councillor Juliet Voisey.Newly elected Green councillor Juliet Voisey. (Image: Cllr Matt Fisher)

"I look forward to helping St Albans to be a healthier and greener city for everyone, and challenging the Council to deliver on the climate emergency.”

The Liberal Democrat leader of St Albans City & District Council, Chris White, told The Herts Advertiser: "In some ways it was a rerun of the May election although with an improved result for the Lib Dems."

In May, the Green Party's Cllr Simon Grover was re-elected in St Peters ward, gaining 1,045 votes.

The Liberal Democrats' David Partridge received 760 votes.

Herts Advertiser: The Liberal Democrat leader of St Albans City & District Council, Chris White.The Liberal Democrat leader of St Albans City & District Council, Chris White. (Image: Chris White)

Cllr White continued: "We will now need to see constructive work from Green Party councillors rather than just grandstanding and half-baked campaigns.

                                                                                            

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"...There are still Lib Dem councillors in the ward and we will continue to shoulder the large casework load, both environmental and beyond."

Herts Advertiser: Green Party councillor Simon Grover.Green Party councillor Simon Grover. (Image: Archant)

The Green Party's Cllr Simon Grover added: "Juliet was a fantastic candidate, and that’s been reflected in this big win - St Peter’s ward now has two Green councillors for the first time, alongside Cllr Matt Fisher in Clarence ward.

"Voters were very impressed with Juliet on the doorstep, and told us they thought it was very important to have Green representation to provide some balance and scrutiny on the Council."