Reform UK has taken control of Newcastle-under-Lyme Borough Council following a landslide election victory on May 7. Jonathan Gullis was elected Leader at the annual meeting, with Reform UK securing 27 seats û significantly ahead of the Conservatives' 15 and Labour's two. The new administration has outlined a bold agenda focused on local priorities that residents have identified as key concerns.
Gullis has prioritised tackling the issues most important to Newcastle Under Lyme residents. His pledges include making parks safer, cracking down on rogue landlords, and investigating vape shops and barbers suspected of links to criminality. The council leader has also vowed to deploy every legal power available to combat begging, anti-social behaviour, illegal off-road bikes, and e-scooter misuse across the borough.
The new cabinet has been appointed from what Gullis describes as "passionate local people" determined to restore pride in Newcastle Under Lyme's town centres. A key focus will be creating skilled, well-paid jobs by building partnerships with universities, colleges and local businesses. This economic development strategy aims to strengthen the borough's prosperity and opportunity for residents.
Speaking after his election as leader, Gullis set out the council's mission: "Our job now is to show that where a Reform UK-led council governs, it delivers change that people can see, feel and believe in."