Brian Long reinstated as West Norfolk’s Conservative leader after Stuart Dark stands down

Tory councillor Brian Long has been reinstated as West Norfolk’s Conservative leader - three years after being replaced.

Following Cllr Stuart Dark announcing his intention to step down from the role last week in order to focus on his position with Norfolk County Council, a vote was held at the Conservative AGM on Thursday to determine his replacement.

Cllr Long has subsequently been elected as the group’s leader, while Cllr Richard Blunt will carry on as deputy leader.

Cllr Long was the Tories’ leader in the borough for five years up until May 2021, when he was replaced by Cllr Dark.

In late 2022, Cllr Dark proceeded to sack him from the authority’s cabinet.

Now, however, Cllr Long and Cllr Blunt have promised to hold the current Independent-led administration to account and “work with all elected to the council for the best outcomes for the residents and businesses of West Norfolk”.

Cllr Long said: “I am delighted to be elected as Conservative group leader again, having served West Norfolk for over 21 years with five as leader.

“I am more than prepared to work with all of the council to deliver the best outcomes for our borough and wider area.”

Cllr Blunt added: "I am very pleased to continue to be deputy leader of the Conservative group.

“In these politically unsure times, it is important that all councillors work together to deliver what’s best for the borough of King's Lynn and West Norfolk.”

Cllr Dark has stepped down as leader of the group in order to focus on his upcoming role as chair of the county council. He currently serves as its vice chair.

He said: "I am very pleased that Brian and Richard have agreed to lead the Conservative group on the borough as I take a step back. I look forward to fully supporting them.

“Brian has many years of experience at successfully leading both the council and a large political group and Richard was my very competent and well-respected deputy over the last year.

“Their appointments along with the group officer appointments continuing behind the scenes clearly show our group is stable, consistent and ready to push forward.”