Reform UK appoint next leader of Barnsley Council
Councillor William Brown is set to take the top job at the South Yorkshire local authority, after his party came to power last week
Barnsley Reform UK has selected Councillor William Brown as the council and party’s new leader after Labour’s damning defeat at the Local Election.
Councillor Edward Dillingham has been chosen as Deputy Leader.
Cllr. Brown was recently elected for the North East ward, and Cllr. Dillingham elected for the Stairfoot ward.
Their appointments were agreed by Reform councillors at their meeting on Tuesday, May 12.
After over 50 years under Labour control, Reform now has a majority in Barnsley Metropolitan Borough Council with 42 seats.
Cllr. Brown describes himself as a family man, who has served 10 years in the military, and has also worked in the private sector.
Brown said: “It will be an honour to serve as the Leader of Barnsley Council. We’re now working to appoint a Cabinet that will support us in taking Barnsley Council forward for the benefit of all residents in the borough, including those who voted for us and those who did not.
“We understand people are keen to hear our plans for Barnsley but it’s important we don’t rush into major decisions.
“We’re in a period of transition and we will have more to say in the coming weeks,” he said.
New Deputy Leader Cllr Dillingham, elected for the Stairfoot ward, said: “William will be a great leader for Barnsley and I look forward to working with him as we take the council forward.”
The businessman and father of three said: “We’re here for every resident, and we’re committed to making our borough an even better place to live.”
Serving as the opposition, Labour fell short of seats with only 11 councillors elected.
The Liberal Democrats secured eight seats, and two councillors were elected as Independent.
Cllr's Brown and Dillingham will officially take charge of the council following a meeting on May 29.