Oldham still without Leader as govt steps in
Summary
Oldham Council has again failed to appoint a Leader, prompting the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government to begin an oversight process that could lead to formal intervention. The council’s monitoring officer has submitted a Section 5 report stating that the absence of a Leader raises concerns about constitutional compliance, governance and lawful decision-making.
Why it matters
For residential property surveyors, local authority governance can affect planning, housing, transport and service delivery decisions that shape local property markets and development activity. Continued instability may also delay or complicate council-led housing and regeneration matters in Oldham and the wider Greater Manchester area.
Key points
- Oldham Council failed for a fifth time to appoint a Leader after the May local elections.
- MHCLG has designated the council as requiring additional oversight and will send a stewardship team.
- The monitoring officer says the council may now be acting unlawfully because a Leader is a statutory requirement under its constitution.
- Oldham currently lacks representation within the Greater Manchester Combined Authority, affecting regional advocacy.
- Council services are said to be continuing normally while further government correspondence is awaited.
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