Oxford Lib Dems leadership shakeup after local elections

The party group has a new leadership team in place after it held its seats at the May 7 polls, but failed to make new gains in the authority.

Dr Chris Smowton, who led the group for four years and into the 2026 vote, has been replaced by Katherine Miles, who represents Summertown.

She said: “I am delighted to take the baton from Chris as we head into a critical period of time of change in our city.

“The local government re-organisation will reshape the way the city is run – we need to ensure Oxford has a strong voice.

“I will work to seek a fairer and more sustainable open economy in Oxford and tackle the dual climate and nature emergencies.”

Ms Miles was first elected in 2021 and has lived in Oxford for more than a decade.

Her background is in international development, women’s financial inclusion and climate risk insurance.

She added: “Thank you to Chris Smowton for his effective leadership of the group over the last four years. I look forward to continuing to work together.”

Christopher Smowton (Image: Supplied)

Dr Smowton, who represents Headington, will now be deputy leader of the group.

He said: “This is a vital year for Oxford as we go into a generational change in local government structure.

“I will work to hold the Labour minority to account and fight to ensure we deliver affordable housing, genuinely safe roads and a cleaner, greener city.”