A York councillor is standing down, sparking a by-election that threatens Labour’s majority.
Ben Burton, who has represented Heworth ward since 2023, is leaving as he’s moving out of York for work.
He was elected as part of Labour’s new intake that saw the party establish a majority and take control of City of York Council for the first time since 2015.
During that time he’s been the chair of both of the place scrutiny and planning B committees. and of the local plan working group.
A by-election is set to be held in mid-January, at a date to be fixed.
Labour only has a one-seat majority on the council, and the poll puts that in question.
Cllr Burton said: “I am proud of what the Labour team have achieved in the ward over the last two-and-a-half years, including helping residents claim thousands through much needed benefits advice, supporting our many fantastic ward partners like Tang Hall Community Centre and now the imminent major improvements to Glen Gardens.
“This year marked a decade since I first started working with the council as a student intern. It’s been an honour serving residents and the city for nearly all of my life since then in various guises.
“However, personal circumstances mean that I am moving away from York and am no longer able to continue in my role as a councillor.”
Labour Group leader and council leader Cllr Claire Douglas said: “I want to thank Ben for all his commitment, expertise and support as a fantastic Labour councillor both in the council and as my Heworth ward colleague.
“He will be sorely missed by our Heworth community and his Labour colleagues.”
In response, leader of the main opposition Lib Dem group Cllr Nigel Ayre said: “Labour’s majority has delivered chaos, from transport policy shambles to cuts to our libraries, botched infrastructure projects, and an executive that has stopped listening to York’s residents.
“This by-election gives Heworth the power to change that. One seat changing hands would end Labour’s majority and force the council to start listening again.
“We wish Cllr Burton well personally but the reality is that Labour is already unravelling. Residents now have the chance to send Labour a message and end their failing majority on the council.”
