Conservative group selects new leader in King's Lynn

Councillor Dark takes over from Councillor Long

Cllrs Long and Dark
Author: Sharon PlummerPublished 11th May 2021

Cllr Stuart Dark, MBE has been selected as the new Conservative group leader at the Borough Council of King's Lynn & West Norfolk. The new Leader of the council will be determined following a vote at the Annual Council Meeting which this year takes place on 20 May 2021.

Cllr Dark replaces Cllr Brian Long who has been group leader and Leader of the borough council for 5 years, and Deputy Leader for 8 years prior to that.

Cllr Brian Long, Leader of the council, said:

"I have thoroughly enjoyed my time as Leader of the borough council and group leader and I am immensely proud of what we have achieved in that time, not least of which providing much needed housing across the borough, dealing with challenging budgetary pressures, Brexit and of course responding to the national pandemic that has impacted on so many people and businesses. The time is right for a new leader to continue our direction of travel and to help shape the future of west Norfolk in this new post-pandemic environment.

"I invited Stuart to join the Cabinet specifically because of his background in emergency response, and he has proven himself in the way he has guided us through this pandemic. He has a wealth of experience that will serve him well in this role."

Cllr Stuart Dark, Cabinet Member for Environmental Services and Public Protection, said:

"Brian is a very well respected member of the group and a well respected member of the borough and county council. I am looking forward to taking on this role and know that I will be heavily relying on his knowledge and experience."

Cabinet and committee roles and responsibilities will be determined and announced at Annual Council.

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