Newcastle-under-Lyme Borough Council's Reform UK administration has outlined its priorities in the first 100 days since taking formal control on 20 May 2026, focusing on frontline services, neighbourhoods and taxpayer spending.
The administration has scrapped the previous council's Net Zero Newcastle 2030 agenda, including planned electric bin lorries and heat pump schemes, and undeclared the Council's climate emergency. Resources are being redirected to parks, green spaces and public facilities residents use regularly.
Parks and Public Spaces
Investment is underway in parks and green spaces across the borough, including plans for a new pump track at Lyme Valley Park.
Community Action
The Council has taken enforcement action against rogue traders, working with partners to close shops selling illegal tobacco and vapes, including sales to children. Swift action has also been taken against unauthorised encampments, with work progressing to strengthen the Council's response capability in future.
A new Community Fund gives every borough councillor £2,500 each year to support local groups, neighbourhood improvements and grassroots projects. A Big Borough Clean Up initiative has brought councillors, residents and community organisations together in areas from Kidsgrove to Silverdale to tackle litter.
Housing and Other Measures
The Council is progressing a borough-wide Article 4 Direction on Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs), which will bring more HMOs into the planning system and give communities greater control over their development.
A new pet crematorium is planned at Bradwell to provide local families with a space to say goodbye to pets.
The Council has quit the Local Government Association and other subscriptions, identifying £30,000 of savings.
The administration continues to stand alongside residents affected by Walleys Quarry, establishing a new cross-party working group with partners including the Environment Agency to scrutinise progress.
