Article
Council Leader stands down
21 September 2026
Cllr Stephen Karl Hunt has resigned from his position as Leader of Neath Port Talbot Council for personal reasons.
Cllr Hunt said: “The role of Council Leader carries a significant level of responsibility, time and commitment, and I believe it is important that whoever holds the position is able to give it the full attention and dedication it deserves.
“For personal reasons, I no longer have the time and capacity required to give the role the commitment necessary to do it justice. I have therefore taken the difficult decision to step down in what I believe is the best interests of the Council, its staff and, most importantly, the residents and communities of Neath Port Talbot.
“This is not a decision I have taken lightly, and I remain committed to serving the people of Neath Port Talbot. I will continue to serve as an Independent Councillor and will continue to work for the residents and communities I represent.”
Cllr Hunt will continue to sit as an Independent councillor for the Crynant, Onllwyn and Seven Sisters ward.
A new Council Leader will be appointed at a Council meeting currently scheduled to be held on the 14th of October 2026.
Deputy Leader of the Council, Cllr Alun Llewelyn will exercise the functions of the Leader until the position is filled.