Council Michael Mordey elected new Leader of Sunderland City Council

The Hendon councillor, who served as Deputy Leader of the council between 2018 and 2020, was elected leader at a full meeting of the City Council last night.

In his new role as council leader, Cllr Mordey also becomes a cabinet member on the new North East Combined Authority.

Councillor Kelly Chequer becomes the council's new Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Health, Wellbeing and Safer Communities.

Cllr Mordey was first elected to represent the Hendon ward on the city council in May 2008.

In his 16 years on the council he has held a number of positions, including serving as Cabinet Member for City Services for four years before becoming Deputy Leader. He has also served as Vice Chair of the Port Board and Vice Chair of Sunderland Health and Wellbeing Board.

He has also represented the council on the North East Joint Transport Committee, the Safer Sunderland Partnership, Back on the Map, the Local Government Association General Assembly and the LGA's Key Cities Board.

Welcoming his appointment, Councillor Mordey, said: "I am really proud to lead the city I love.  A city I was born in.  One I have spent my whole working life supporting.  And a place I proudly call home.

"There has been much progress made in the city over recent years, with huge investment and regeneration across all corners of the city.

"We want to make sure that nobody is left behind. But equally, we have to be laser focused on uplifting the whole city through positive and proactive regeneration and investment decisions.

"This is about building bridges that connect our residents to the opportunities we are creating for them. It's about building a stronger city by recognising that a high tide raises all ships - we have to create conditions in which every single person in this city can realise their potential."

Last night's council meeting also saw Cllr Mordey confirming his new Cabinet and their Portfolio responsibilities which includes some new areas of focus which Cllr Mordey believes better align with the needs of the city and its residents:

Children's Services, Child Poverty and Skills - Cllr Michael Butler 

Communities, Culture and Tourism - Cllr Beth Jones

Corporate Services and Equalities - Cllr Alison Smith 

Environment, Transport and Net Zero - Cllr Lindsey Leonard

Housing, Regeneration and Business - Cllr Kevin Johnston