Staffordshire County Council’s new Acting Leader, Councillor Hayley Coles, has pledged to champion residents and businesses and drive forward the county’s plans following her predecessor Martin Murray’s resignation.
Cllr Coles, previously the council’s Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Communities and Culture, has taken on the role with immediate effect.
The ruling Reform UK group selected her as its new group Leader, with Councillor Sean Bagguley appointed group Deputy Leader. Cllr Bagguley, the council’s Cabinet Member for Finance and Resources, has also become Acting Deputy Leader of the council.
Setting out her priorities in a statement issued by the council, Cllr Coles said: “I feel privileged to have been trusted to lead the council into this new chapter.
“My focus now is to drive forward the delivery of our plans for the county.
“I intend to advocate strongly for our residents and businesses, ensure people get effective and efficient council services and champion Staffordshire as the wonderful county it is.”
The council has confirmed that formal selection of its Leader and Deputy Leader will take place at a meeting of Full Council on 10 December 2026. Cllr Coles will retain her Cabinet responsibilities, while Cllr Murray will continue to represent Cannock Town as a Reform UK councillor.
Daily Focus broke the news of Cllr Murray’s departure after he announced his decision on LinkedIn.
In his post, he said: “Following careful consideration, I have concluded that it is in the best interests of Staffordshire, our residents and this County Council for me to step down as Leader of Staffordshire County Council and Leader of the Reform UK Group.
“This was a difficult decision, but the interests of Staffordshire, the Council and those we serve must come first.”
Cllr Coles paid tribute to her predecessor, saying: “I want to thank Councillor Murray for his leadership thus far and the passion he has shown.”
In the council’s statement, Cllr Murray said: “It has been a huge privilege to be Leader of this council, and I am proud of the achievements we have delivered so far.
“It is now time for the Cabinet to come together to focus on delivering even greater success for this amazing county and the people and communities we serve.”
Daily Focus has contacted Reform UK’s spokesperson in Staffordshire and Cllr Coles.
