Much of the focus in London after this month's local elections was on the successes of the Greens and Reform, as well as Labour's struggles.
But in one leafy west London borough, a very different story unfolded, with the Liberal Democrats winning every seat in every ward at the latest local elections.
The party secured a complete sweep on 7 May 2026, retaining control of Richmond‑upon‑Thames Council, leaving the chamber without formal opposition.
The Lib Dems now hold 54 seats (+6), with the Greens losing all five of their previous seats and the Conservatives losing their only seat.
Such a decisive result has brought both praise and unease, with the party saying it is evidence of strong local backing, while also prompting questions about scrutiny, accountability and how effectively dif