Gerard Walsh has become a prominent figure in Blackpool local politics over the past decade, known both for his long service as a councillor and for a high-profile change in party allegiance that has attracted attention locally. Walsh first entered local government as a Conservative councillor, representing the Squires Gate ward on Blackpool Council. He was elected to the council in 2019, winning support from local voters in a contest that emphasised community issues such as housing standards, street safety and investment in neighbourhood services. As a Conservative councillor, Walsh served on a number of council committees and was known for his active engagement in local matters, regularly attending ward meetings, supporting residents with casework and advocating for improvements in infrastructure and local services.
Over time, however, Walsh’s political stance began to shift. During the early 2020s, Reform UK began to gain traction in local elections across northern England, tapping into voters concerned about immigration policy, perceived government overreach, and dissatisfaction with the major national parties. Reform’s growing presence in local government provided an alternative for some Conservative figures who felt the party no longer represented their priorities or the views of their constituents.
In 2025, Walsh made the decision to defect from the Conservative Party to Reform UK, formally switching his party affiliation while continuing to serve as councillor for Squires Gate. The move was announced through local Reform UK campaign channels, which described the defection as a “significant boost” for the party in the Blackpool South area. Supporters framed Walsh’s change as reflecting a wider trend of Conservative councillors aligning with Reform UK in response to national political shifts and Reform’s expanding local election performance.
Upon joining Reform UK, Walsh said his decision was motivated by a belief that the party’s policies better reflected both his personal convictions and the concerns of many voters in his ward. His switch generated headlines locally and nationally, underscoring Reform UK’s strategy of building grassroots representation in council chambers — particularly in towns and communities where traditional party allegiances have been shifting. As a Reform UK councillor, Walsh has continued to sit on Blackpool Council, representing residents of Squires Gate and participating in council debates and committees under his new party banner. His journey — from Conservative councillor elected in 2019 to a Reform UK representative from 2025 onwards — illustrates the fluid nature of local politics in the current era and highlights how broader national political trends can influence governance even at the municipal level.
Featured Image © Gerard Walsh Facebook Page
