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Oldham Council Faces Leadership Crisis Amid Political Stalemate
Who is keeping the lights on at Oldham Council?
Image: Manchester Evening News
Oldham Council is currently in a leadership crisis following the 2026 local elections, where Labour lost eight seats, leaving no party with a clear majority. Chief Executive Shelley Kipling is managing day-to-day operations, but key decisions are on hold until a new leader is appointed. The council's constitution restricts officers from making significant policy changes without elected officials.
- 01Labour lost eight seats in the 2026 local elections, making Reform UK the second-largest group with 16 councillors.
- 02The council cannot make key decisions until a new Mayor and leader are appointed, causing potential delays in projects and finances.
- 03Chief Executive Shelley Kipling is currently overseeing operations, earning a salary of £180,646.
- 04The council's constitution allows officers to manage day-to-day services, but major decisions require elected councillors.
- 05Previous political stalemates have led to government intervention, which could cost councils up to £1,200 a day.
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Oldham Council is experiencing a leadership crisis after the 2026 local elections resulted in Labour losing eight seats, leaving no party with a majority. Currently, the Reform UK party holds 16 seats, just behind Labour. With no new Mayor or council leader, day-to-day operations are managed by Chief Executive Shelley Kipling, who is responsible for keeping services running. However, significant decisions regarding policy and budget are stalled, as the council's constitution requires elected councillors to approve key decisions. The stalemate raises concerns about potential delays in important projects and financial decisions. Past instances of political deadlock have led to government intervention, which can impose additional costs on councils. Experts warn that without elected leadership, councils risk losing democratic control over their governance. A meeting to address the situation is scheduled for June 15, but until then, the council's operations will continue under the existing framework.
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The leadership crisis at Oldham Council could delay essential services and projects, affecting the community's wellbeing.
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