New Sunderland Labour leader's pledge to voters after party's local elections mauling

Labour lost control of Sunderland City Council after 49 years when Reform UK won 58 of the 75 seats in May’s local elections, reducing Labour to just five councillors. Councillor Fiona Tobin, representing the Barnes and Thornhill ward, was elected as the new Labour leader, while Councillor Brandon Feeley became deputy leader. Tobin acknowledged the result as a voter demand for change, vowing to rebuild trust by listening to communities and delivering tangible results. She stressed Labour’s role as a constructive opposition, pledging to scrutinize the Reform-led administration on issues like candidate vetting and councillor pay. Tobin warned against underestimating the complexity of local governance, emphasizing that residents expect continued service delivery despite the political shift. Key priorities include holding the new council accountable while championing local projects such as Crown Works, the Riverside development, and the Glass Centre. Tobin also highlighted Labour’s support in Barnes and Thornhill, where the party retained all three seats, and expressed pride in leading the group. She reaffirmed Labour’s commitment to visibility in communities, challenging decisions, and offering alternatives for Sunderland’s future. The party will focus on cultural and economic initiatives, including Pride events, while maintaining a strong opposition stance to ensure accountability and fairness in local democracy.