**Bridgend Welcomes New Mayor as Leader Retains Position in Annual Council Meeting**
The picturesque county borough of Bridgend is set for a new chapter in its leadership, as the results of the council’s annual meeting usher in both a newly appointed mayor and the continuity of its leader. The eagerly anticipated event, held on 19 May 2025, saw notable changes to the borough’s key civic roles, promising both fresh perspectives and steady governance for the year ahead.
Councillor Huw David, a well-known figure in the local political scene, has been formally inaugurated as Bridgend County Borough Council’s new mayor. Having been a resident of Cefn Cribwr his entire life and serving as a councillor since 2004, Cllr David brings a wealth of experience to the role. He assumes the mayoralty from Cllr Heather Griffiths, whose tenure was marked by community engagement and visibility across the county.
Taking office, Cllr David expressed deep gratitude, stating, “I’m exceptionally proud to have been elected as the new mayor of our county borough. Thank you for all your support – it’s truly appreciated.” His message underlined an ambition to serve Bridgend’s diverse towns, valleys, and rural communities, working closely with newly appointed deputy mayor, Labour councillor Heidi Bennett of Pen-y-fai. Together, they hope to strengthen community bonds and champion local issues throughout their term.
The meeting also gave rise to the selection of youth representatives, with Phoebe Evans named as youth mayor and Adam Cloutier as deputy youth mayor. Their appointments signal the council’s commitment to encouraging youth involvement in local governance and decision-making.
Simultaneously, the council re-elected Cllr John Spanswick, of the Labour Party, to retain his role as leader for the 2025-26 year. The decision ensures a measure of continuity, especially vital as the borough navigates ongoing challenges and strategic goals. Cllr Spanswick, following his confirmation, acknowledged the political differences within the chamber but reinforced a collaborative mandate: “We may not always agree, but we are collectively responsible for representing the residents of Bridgend. My goal is to work with every member for the benefit of our communities.”
The composition of the cabinet is set to remain unchanged for the coming year, indicating a stable approach to the administration’s core policies and priorities. This consistency may reassure residents seeking continuity in service delivery and leadership as the council embarks on new initiatives.
On the administrative front, the borough is bracing for a significant transition as it prepares to welcome its new chief executive, Jake Morgan, in July 2025. Mr Morgan, currently serving as deputy chief executive and corporate director of community services at Carmarthenshire County Council, boasts extensive experience in local government. He is poised to take over following the planned departure of former CEO Mark Shephard, whose resignation was previously announced in December 2024. This leadership change forms part of the council’s broader strategy for renewal and development, building on the expertise of senior officers.
Local communities and stakeholders will be watching eager to see how the blend of new appointments and familiar faces will shape Bridgend’s future. As regional councils across Wales face increasing responsibilities, the importance of experienced leadership and inclusive representation becomes all the more apparent.
With these appointments, Bridgend County Borough Council begins a new administrative year with renewed resolve. Residents are hopeful that this combination of continuity and fresh leadership will foster cohesive action, greater civic engagement, and continued resilience throughout the area.
As Bridgend moves forward with its newly confirmed mayor and returning leader, attention now turns to the council’s policy agenda and the impact these leaders will have on local projects and services. The political and civic landscape of the borough is, as always, shaped just as much by its leaders’ decisions as by the communities they serve.