THE leader of Staffordshire County Council says he has delivered on a promise that the authority would "get on with the job".
Cllr Martin Murray made his comments as prepares to mark six months at the helm of the Reform UK administration.
His appointment came following the resignation of two previous leaders after the party swept to power in May 2025.
Cllr Murray said the successes of his group had delivered "practical results" for local residents.
He said:
"Six months ago, I made a promise to the people of Staffordshire that this Reform UK administration would get on with the job.
"We were elected to make decisions, protect the services people rely on and put Staffordshire first. That is what we have done.
"In a period of major political change, financial pressure and imposed structural upheaval, this administration has remained focused, disciplined and determined to deliver for the county.
"Across Staffordshire, that approach is now being seen in practical results. We have stayed focused on the things that matter most – stronger services, sound finances, better infrastructure, support for local business, and protecting the interests of residents and communities right across our county."
The county council will cease to exist from April 2028 once the local government reorganisation process is complete.
In its place will be new unitary authorities splitting Staffordshire into north and south.
Reform UK had thrown its weight behind an east-west division which would have seen Lichfield and Burntwood in with areas such as East Staffordshire, the Staffordshire Moorlands and Stoke-on-Trent.
Cllr Murray said that while he did not agree with the changes, the county council would seek to ensure the impact on residents is limited.
"Despite our objections, this Labour government has decided to go ahead with local government reorganisation.
"Our position is clear – Reform UK in Staffordshire will ensure that this transition is delivered with seriousness, competence and an absolute focus on the public interest, so that no resident, no business and no community is disadvantaged or forgotten in any way during this transition. That is what leadership requires when a decision has been imposed from above.
"Our job now is to protect Staffordshire's voice, identity and interests at every stage.
"Whatever this government imposes next, this Reform UK administration will stand up for Staffordshire and insist that decisions affecting this county are shaped in the interests of, and by, the people of Staffordshire.
"We need a strategic authority that is accountable to Staffordshire people, not a remote structure that dilutes our voice and democratic control.
"In May 2027, Staffordshire will vote in its first elections for the new unitary councils – and they will matter enormously. People will be voting not only for who best represents them and their area, but for who can deliver the next chapter of local government in Staffordshire.
"My promise is straightforward – we will keep doing the work, keep standing up for Staffordshire and keep putting this county first. Staffordshire is the manufacturing heartland and the beating heart of the country.
"It deserves leadership with the confidence to say so."
