'We want an anti-cuts manifesto developed by the people we wish to serve': Black Country Party gears up for local elections
Dudley’s newest political party geared up for May’s local elections by asking the public to have a say on its manifesto.
The Black Country Party launched in 2025 with a promise to be ‘community-led’ with an anti-cuts, anti-austerity set of policies.
All six Black Country party councillors on Dudley Council are former Labour Party members but say their new group will be a change from mainstream politics.
The party held its first ‘manifesto day’ on January 24 in Brierley Hill where members of the public were invited to have a say on policies.
Black Country Party leader, Councillor Pete Lowe, said: “We promised to do things differently and we are demonstrating that clearly.
“We want an anti-cuts manifesto developed by the people we wish to serve themselves.
“Whilst other parties will develop their plans in private rooms, we have proudly done this publicly, in the open for all to see.
“We encourage our community to help shape our priorities, from investment in sport and the arts, decent council homes and a safe environment.”
The party says around 60 people attended the event, where former Dudley mayor Steve Waltho was made the party’s honorary president.
Among the topics debated at the event were affordable housing, affordable rents and tenant rights, access to public services and overturning government cuts.
Karen Westwood, deputy leader of the Black Country Party, said: “We couldn’t believe the numbers, many of us had to keep getting extra tables and chairs to accommodate more people, it was an incredible sight and we feel really humbled.
“The only way to truly represent the Black Country is to listen to the people who live here.”
