Reform UK marks 100 days in control of Newcastle-under-Lyme Council
Reform UK has marked 100 days since taking control of Newcastle-under-Lyme Borough Council, with council leader Jonathan Gullis highlighting what the party says are some of its biggest achievements since coming to power.
The party secured control of the borough council following the May elections, with Reform promising to take a different approach to running the authority.
In a statement marking the first 100 days, Reform says it has already made a number of changes, including what it claims is more than £11 million in savings for taxpayers by ending what it describes as "wasteful" Net Zero spending.
The party has also pointed to the introduction of plans for a borough-wide Article 4 Direction covering Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs). If implemented, the measure would mean certain HMO conversions would require planning permission, giving the council greater control over where shared housing is created.
The council has previously confirmed that it is investigating an Article 4 Direction across the borough. The matter is currently listed for a Cabinet decision in September.
Other measures highlighted by Reform include a new Community Fund, providing each councillor with £2,500 a year to support projects in their local communities, plans for a new pump track at Lyme Valley Park, action against two illegal vape shops and the borough's first "Big Borough Clean Up".
The party also says it has taken action over illegal encampments, is progressing plans for a new pet crematorium in Bradwell and has raised the Union Flag and St George's Cross in Queen's Gardens.
Reform has also highlighted the council's decision to withdraw from the Local Government Association, saying this will save tens of thousands of pounds in membership costs. The withdrawal was approved by the council's Cabinet earlier this month.
Another issue being pushed by the new administration is Walleys Quarry. Reform says it has created a new Walleys Quarry Working Group to continue pursuing answers and accountability for residents affected by the long-running odour problems.
Jonathan Gullis, leader of Newcastle-under-Lyme Borough Council, said the first 100 days were only the beginning.
In the statement, he said: "We promised to do things differently, and in just 100 days, we've already been getting on with the job."
He added: "That's just the first 100 days. There is still plenty more to do, and we are only getting started."
The new administration's record is likely to remain under close scrutiny as more of its policies move from announcements into implementation.
The Article 4 plans, in particular, could have a significant impact on landlords, developers and communities across the borough if they are approved. An Article 4 Direction removes certain permitted development rights, meaning planning permission can become necessary for changes that would otherwise be allowed without a full planning application.
Reform's claims around savings and the impact of its first 100 days are the party's own assessment of its record, and the longer-term financial and practical impact of the changes will become clearer as the administration continues.
