Former Mayor resigns

Former Mayor of Newtown and town councillor John Byrne has stepped down from the town council.

Mr Byrne's resignation takes immediate effect from Monday 28th October 2024.

It is not known why Mr Byrne has stepped down.

He served as a town councillor for the past 6 years, including two as Mayor of Newtown & Llanllwchaiarn.

Announcing the news at the full town council meeting on Monday, current Mayor, Cllr Pete Lewington thanked him for his service.

This is now your opportunity to call for an election to fill the vacant seat.

Where a casual vacancy occurs, a request for an election must be made within 14 working days of the publication of the notice of vacancy by ten electors from within the relevant electoral area - Newtown East. The requests from the ten electors may be submitted together, separately, or a combination of the two.

Any request for an election should be sent via letter to the Deputy Returning Officer, Powys County Council, County Hall, Llandrindod Wells, Powys, LD1 5LG.

Town Clerk, Ed Humphreys, said:

"Your town council, as part of a representative democracy, is composed of the people the community elects to make decisions locally, on its behalf and in its best interests. If you have ideas to help make this community a better place to live, learn, work, or visit, and feel able to persuade others of their benefit over their cost, this is your opportunity."

"However, it’s important to recognise that this opportunity extends beyond simply calling for an election; it is an invitation to consider standing as a town councillor. This role offers the chance to actively contribute to your town’s well-being, to represent the diverse voices within your community, and to work collaboratively towards a brighter future for all"

The request for an election must be submitted by 20th November 2024.