Independent councillor Scott Jones has been elected as the new leader of Neath Port Talbot Council, succeeding former leader Steve Hunt.
The cabinet member for street-scene was chosen for the role following a vote by members at a full council meeting held by the authority on October 14, 2026.
The change in leadership came after the former leader stepped down from his position in September following criticism from colleagues for drinking too much alcohol at a political event.
New role for remainder of civic year
Councillor Scott Jones of Gwynfi and Croeserw will now take over as leader for the remainder of the civic year, in the build-up to the local council elections in Wales in May 2027.
Councillor Carl Jordan of Neath South will become the cabinet member for street-scene in his place.
Speaking after his election, Councillor Jones said it was a great honour to take up the role of leader, with his priorities being to make the strongest possible case for a fair and sustainable budget settlement for Neath Port Talbot Council.
Priorities and concerns raised
Addressing the chamber, he said: "As cabinet member for street-scene, I have worked alongside dedicated officers and councillors to secure investment in our communities, improve parks and public spaces, strengthen flood defences, deliver environmental improvements and exceed Welsh Government recycling targets."
"Those achievements were made possible by teamwork, partnership working and a clear focus on delivering practical results for residents."
"They have reinforced my belief that effective leadership is never about one individual."
"It is about bringing people together, supporting them and creating the conditions for everyone to contribute. That principle will guide my approach to leading the council."
Some councillors, however, said they would not support the election of the new leader because of previous connections he had with Public Child Protection Wales, and campaigns the group led against the Relationships and Sexuality Education (RSE) curriculum in Wales.
In response, Councillor Jones said his original focus with RSE had been around allowing parents to have an opt-out clause, adding that he now had no association with the group and had not done for several years.
Vote outcome
Councillor Nia Jenkins, cabinet member for education in Neath Port Talbot, said after previous discussions with the cabinet about RSE she was able to reassure Councillor Jones about the curriculum, noting that she had no concerns about his suitability to lead the administration.
Following discussions, the new leader of Neath Port Talbot Council was appointed with a vote of 29 to 11, with five abstentions.
