Jonathan Gullis has been chosen as the new Leader of Newcastle Under Lyme Borough Council following Reform UK's election victory. The councillor, who represents Kidsgrove and Ravenscliffe, will be formally nominated at the council's annual meeting on Wednesday, May 20. Graham Shaw, the Knutton councillor, has been elected as deputy leader.
Reform UK's control of Newcastle Under Lyme Borough Council is now firmly established. The party won 27 of the 44 council seats in the May 7 election, significantly ahead of the Conservative Party with 15 seats and Labour with just 2 seats. This commanding majority gives Reform UK a clear mandate to lead the council.
The May 20 annual meeting will be a significant event for Newcastle Under Lyme residents and local government. The meeting will formally announce new Cabinet members and their specific roles, as well as revealing who will serve as Mayor and Deputy Mayor for the coming year.
The results represent a substantial shift in local politics for Newcastle Under Lyme Borough Council. Residents will see their council priorities and services shaped by Reform UK's leadership over the coming months. The formal appointments on May 20 will mark the official start of this new era in local government.