Leeds City Council leader Keith Wakefield to stand down

Leeds City Council leader Keith Wakefield will stand down from the role next month.
Coun Keith WakefieldCoun Keith Wakefield
Coun Keith Wakefield

Coun Wakefield said it was a “difficult decision” to leave after 12 years in the job.

He will continue to serve as the ward councillor for Kippax and Methley, where he has another two years to serve before considering re-election.

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Coun Wakefield said: “I have decided after 12 years of having the privilege of being leader of Leeds Labour Group to stand down in order to spend more time on a challenge to achieve greater devolution for

the Leeds City Region.

“During the last few years I have been immensely proud to be a part of some great achievements in Leeds, such as Trinity Leeds shopping centre, the Grand Depart, and making progress with the living wage for low paid workers, to name a few.

“Needless to say it has not been an easy decision, but given the continuing challenges facing Leeds I now intend to campaign hard for the devolution the city and region needs to make further progress.

Coun Wakefield will continue in the role until May 21 when a new leader will be elected.