By-Election Triumph: Lib Dems Gain Vale Ward from Independent

The Liberal Democrats have secured a resounding victory in the Chesham Town Council by-election for Vale Ward, restoring a hard working Liberal Democrat to the seat and sending a clear message to Conservative-led Buckinghamshire Council.

Newly elected Town Councillor Nazmeen Akhtar won the seat with 245 votes, ahead of the Conservative candidate on 156 votes, the Independent candidate on 22 votes, and the Green Party candidate on 33 votes. Total turnout was 29%

The result reflects weeks of intensive door-to-door campaigning by Liberal Democrat volunteers, highlighting key community priorities including road and pavement maintenance, protecting local green spaces and allotments, and backing town centre assets like The Elgiva.

Speaking following the declaration at the count, Councillor Nazmeen Akhtar said:

"I am deeply honored that the residents of Vale Ward have put their trust in me to represent them on Chesham Town Council.

"Throughout this campaign, I’ve spoken with hundreds of residents who told us they felt taken for granted by Conservative-run Buckinghamshire Council. People want a local councilor who listens, works hard, and gets things done for our community.

"Whether it's fighting for proper road repairs, protecting our precious local green havens, or supporting our High Street, I am ready to roll up my sleeves and work alongside our brilliant Liberal Democrat team for every resident in Vale Ward."

Chesham Town Councillor and Campaign Chair Thomas Pirouet added:

"This is a fantastic result for Nazmeen and for Chesham. Voters in Vale Ward had a clear choice between a hard-working local champion or a Conservative party defending central council neglect. Nazmeen ran a positive, community-focused campaign, and we look forward to working with her on the council."

ENDS