A Reform UK councillor clashed with Liberal Democrats this week over the cost of a forthcoming by-election in Harrogate.

The by-election for the Valley Gardens ward on Harrogate Town Council is expected to take place on March 19 following the resignation of Lib Dem councillor Edward Metcalfe.

The cost is estimated to be £10,013, which will be paid by Harrogate council taxpayers. However, the sum would be reduced by £2,903 to £7,110 if polling cards aren’t issued.

At a town council meeting this week, all councillors voted in favour of issuing poll cards — except Reform Cllr David Goodall, who represents Bilton Woodfield.

Cllr Monika Slater, a Lib Dem who represents New Park, said not everyone knew there was a by-election and polling cards “were right and proper to make sure they are fully aware”. She added: “It’s always been done. I don’t think a by-election is the right time to change it.”

But Cllr Goodall said the counter argument was that the by-election will take place less than a year after the town council’s inaugural elections on May 1 last year. 

“I am wondering if it is actually worth the cost of issuing the polling cards bearing in mind the short gap,” he said.

Lib Dem Cllr Josie Caven (Kingsley) said polling cards made elections accessible and inclusive, adding: “Democracy is expensive.”

Conservative Cllr Elizabeth Jackson agreed, sayings “taxpayers have the right to know democracy is working properly”.

The Lib Dems won 15 of the 19 town council seats last year. The Conservatives hold two, Reform UK has one and there is one Independent so the outcome of the by-election will not jeopardise the Lib Dems' control.