MARTIN MURRAY RESIGNS AS STAFFORDSHIRE COUNCIL LEADER

Martin Murray resigned as leader of Staffordshire County Council on Tuesday after seven months in the role, Reform UK confirmed. He also stepped down as leader of the council’s Reform UK group. Murray said he had concluded that resignation was in the “best interests of Staffordshire, our residents and this County Council”. His departure leaves the council with its fourth leader since December 2025. Reform UK said Murray would remain a councillor for Cannock Town.

Ian Cooper resigned as council leader in December 2025 amid an investigation into allegations linked to his social media activity. His successor, Chris Large, resigned in February after allegations arose about racist comments that he denied writing. The council formally elected Murray as leader in March. In his resignation statement, Murray said his administration had delivered a balanced budget and protected frontline services. He also said it had secured investment in highways, children’s services and community facilities.

Reform UK said it had chosen deputy leader Hayley Coles as its fourth group leader and that she would serve as acting council leader. The party said it expected Coles to take over the council leadership in December. Coles said: “My priority is to drive forward the mandate our residents voted for and deliver the change the county so desperately needs.” A council spokesperson said Sean Bagguley, cabinet member for finance and resources, had become acting deputy leader. Murray said he remained committed to Staffordshire and the people of Cannock and wished the council’s new leadership success.