Former Birmingham City Council leader Mike Whitby has announced he intends to put himself forward to lead the Conservative group in opposition to Labour.
Last week’s local election brought his eight-year reign as city council leader to an end, but the Harborne councillor says he will stand as opposition leader when the 28-strong Tory group meet on Monday.
Coun Whitby said the election was the result of a national trend against the Conservatives.
“We have left a legacy of which we can be proud," he said. "We should be pleased with our achievements. I will go to the group on Monday and see what they have to day.”
There have been rumblings of discontent from within the ranks and a challenge is likely – although no-one has come forward.
Some councillors believe not only is it time for change but that the damage to their group – they lost ten seats – could have been limited with a better run campaign.
