BREAKING: Councillor Andrew Morgan OBE, the longest-serving council leader in Wales, has announced he will step down before the Annual General Meeting of Rhondda Cynon Taf Council this May. Morgan, who has led the council for over a decade, confirmed he will not seek re-election in the 2027 council elections, marking a significant transition in local leadership.
Morgan, who has been a pivotal figure in Welsh local government since his election in 2004, expressed gratitude for his longstanding role. “It has been a privilege to lead Rhondda Cynon Taf Council over the last twelve years,” he stated, emphasizing the challenges he faced, including severe flooding in 2020 and the ongoing impacts of the Covid-19 pandemic.
As leader since 2014, Morgan has overseen transformative projects, including a remarkable £1 billion capital investment programme aimed at enhancing local infrastructure and services. He is particularly proud of creating nearly 400 apprenticeships and over 150 graduate positions, which he believes are crucial for local talent development.
The announcement comes as the council’s majority Labour Group prepares to select a new leader. “I decided back at the election in 2022 that this would be my last local election,” Morgan noted, highlighting his commitment to give his party colleagues the opportunity to choose new leadership to guide the council into the future.
Morgan’s leadership has been characterized by a strong focus on financial management and service delivery, ensuring that the council is well-equipped to tackle various challenges. “Our staff have been instrumental in navigating the unprecedented challenges during my tenure,” he remarked, thanking them for their dedication and hard work.
Looking ahead, the council faces the task of appointing a successor who can continue the legacy of progress established under Morgan’s leadership. The transition is set to occur in the coming months, with the council’s AGM in May marking a pivotal moment in local governance.
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