Hyndburn Council's new Labour leader promises fresh start

Spring Hill ward's Cllr Munsif Dad made the pledge at the authority's annual meeting in Accrington Town Hall on Thursday.

His elevation to the borough's political boss came as the Conservative group's veteran leader Cllr Marlene Haworth stood down from her position in favour of 30-year-old Cllr Zak Khan as she recovers from a December stroke.

Labour took control of the council with 22 councillors to the Tories' 11 with one Green and one Independent.

Cllr Dad told the meeting which confirmed his party's takeover from the minority Conservative administration: "In 1969 as a young boy I arrived in Great Harwood.

New Tory group leader Cllr Zak Khan

"Back then I was filled with awe and hope stepping into a community that was as welcoming as Great Harwood - and by extension Hyndburn - where I could plant my roots and grow.

"Over the years I have seen our community face challenges, celebrate victories and constantly strive to create a better Hyndburn for now and for our children and grandchildren.

"Being elected as council leader is not just a personal milestone. It is a reflection of the collective aspirations of the people of Hyndburn and faith from my Labour colleagues.

"It is about our shared vision for a community that thrives on inclusivity, sustainability and innovation.

"Hyndburn Labour is focused on giving Hyndburn a fresh start and delivering for residents and each one of its townships.

"Our journey ahead is filled with opportunities.

"We live in a time of rapid change and it is our duty to harness these changes for the betterment of our community.

Marlene Howarth has stepped down as Tory group leader

"My vision for Hyndburn is one where economic development goes hand in hand with environmental stewardship.

"Gone are the days of managed decline. Today is a new chapter."

Cllr Haworth told the meeting: "It has been one of the biggest privileges of my life to be the first female leader of Hyndburn Borough Council for the last 12 months.

"I am proud of our record. It has felt as though we have lit a switch in the borough which has been turned off for so long.

"We have started a momentum that if kept going will yield revolutionary results.

"My stroke had a profound impact on my health and physical strength.

"It's time for younger and energetic councillors to come to the fore."

Cllr Khan said the Conservative group would work with Labour 'to put the borough first' but would criticise it and hold it to account in good faith when necessary.

Netherton ward's Cllr Noordad Aziz said that saying farewell to the borough's first female leader and welcoming leaders of the main Labour and Conservative council group's made him proud of the diversity of Hyndburn.