Birmingham City Council Leader To Stand Down “For The Good of Birmingham”
Soon to be former Birmingham City Council leader Sir Albert Bore has announced that he will leave the role in order to improve stability within the city.
The Ladywood councillor has said he will step down from his role, which he has held for 16 years, following a week which saw the shock resignations of two of his senior colleagues with more councillors threatening to follow suit.
The decision was made following the third meeting of the cabinet within 24 hours to discuss the growing crisis concerning leadership of the city.
A critical report released last year from civil servant Sir Bob Kerslake labelled Birmingham City Council disconnected and dysfunctional and the authority’s head, Sir Albert Bore, found himself under increasing pressure to step down following criticism of his handling of the report’s recommendations earlier this year.
The announcement of his resignation sparked an outpouring of tributes for the Birmingham City Council leader, whose tenure has seen great strides towards the city centre’s regeneration.
Sir Albert said: “The people of Birmingham have always come first. I’ve had a vision for Birmingham and I want to ensure someone else is in place to see through the work that I’ve started.
“What we also need at the moment is some stability rather than the distraction within the council and the media of how long I might remain as Leader. This is drawing attention away from the work that the city council needs to drive forward.”
He added: “A new voice will see Birmingham through the next period in its history. So it is right for me to step back and take on a different role.”
Sir Albert Bore’s announcement has prompted a battle for the city’s leadership and the process of electing his successor will begin imminently.
Councillor Ian Ward, deputy leader of the city council and one of the favourites to succeed him, said: “Sir Albert Bore has made a huge contribution to Birmingham. His drive, enthusiasm and commitment have changed the shape of the city to the benefit of Birmingham citizens. He has been an inspirational leader.
“I have worked closely with him for over 15 years and have learnt a great deal from his selfless dedication to public service. I owe him a great debt of gratitude.
“He has always put Birmingham and its people first and whilst I personally am sad that he will be stepping down as Leader of the Council, it is typical of Albert that he has reached this decision by placing the interests of the city ahead of himself.”
