Former Reform MP Rupert Lowe establishes a new party

Rupert Lowe, previously a Reform UK MP and now an independent representative for Great Yarmouth, has announced the creation of a new political party called Great Yarmouth First. The partys aim is to focus exclusively on advancing the interests of his constituency.

The party has not yet been officially registered with the Electoral Commission, as Lowe emphasized the need to establish a solid foundation first. He revealed that 500 local residents had already joined, with their membership fees for the first year covered by him.

Lowe explained that his partys mission is to prioritize the needs of Great Yarmouth over broader regional or national concerns. Speaking to the BBC, he criticized the national government for failing the public and suggested that local authorities have also fallen short. We hope to inspire a new approach in local politics where residents take a more active role in governance, he said.

Continuing as an independent MP, Lowe hopes the model of a constituency-focused party will spread across other regions. He described the initiative as grassroots Britain reclaiming control of its future and intends to field candidates in the upcoming local elections in May.

Although he did not outline detailed policy plans, Lowe highlighted areas such as fishing and oil and gas, suggesting these sectors have been neglected amid the push for renewable energy investments. However, Conservative Carl Smith, leader of Great Yarmouth Borough Council, disagreed with Lowes assessment. Smith pointed out that approximately 300 million has been invested in the area since 2019, including the Herring Bridge, new marina facilities, and the redevelopment of local landmarks.

Lowe previously founded Restore Britain earlier this year after being suspended from Reform UK in March over allegations of threats against then-party chairman Zia Yusuf, which were later dismissed by the Crown Prosecution Service due to insufficient evidence.

Known for his outspoken criticism of mainstream political institutions, Lowe is now turning his attention to local government, which he believes is disconnected from the needs of residents. Political analysts suggest that while the new party may only secure a modest presence at Norfolk County Council, it could signal a shift toward smaller, community-centered political movements, as voters increasingly move away from major parties in local elections.

The emergence of Great Yarmouth First follows similar independent initiatives, such as the recent founding of Your Party by former Labour figures Jeremy Corbyn and Zarah Sultana.

Author: Zoe Harrison