Greater Manchester has a new leader. Bev Craig, the current leader of Manchester City Council, has been elected as the region’s mayor, taking over the role previously held by Andy Burnham, who stepped down after returning to parliament.
Craig secured victory after receiving 47.15 per cent of first-round votes in the mayoral election. While no candidate crossed the required 50 per cent threshold, the election moved into a second round where second-preference votes determined the final result.
The result saw Labour strengthen its position in Greater Manchester, with Craig receiving 309,525 combined first and second preference votes. Her closest challenger, Reform UK’s Sian Astley, secured 157,178 votes after the second round of counting.
The election attracted attention across the UK as Reform UK, a party that has gained momentum in national polling, finished in second place with around 21 per cent of the first-round vote.
More than two million residents were eligible to participate in the election, although turnout remained below expectations, with just under one-quarter of voters casting their ballots.
Craig’s victory marks a significant moment for Greater Manchester, a region that has become increasingly influential in shaping discussions around local decision-making, economic growth, public services, and regional development.
Andy Burnham, who served as mayor since 2017 and won re-election twice, including a strong victory in 2024, became widely recognised as a powerful voice for northern England. His commitment to representing regional interests earned him the nickname “King of the North”.
After announcing his intention to return to national politics, Burnham successfully contested the Makerfield constituency, opening the way for his return to Westminster.
His move also came alongside a wider government focus on giving more power to regional leaders. Plans were announced to allow mayors to retain a share of locally collected taxes, aiming to provide regions with greater control over their own economic and social priorities.
For Bev Craig, the challenge now begins: transforming election promises into meaningful action while continuing Greater Manchester’s journey toward stronger local leadership.
Her appointment represents not only a change of leadership but also a new opportunity for the region to build on its achievements, address challenges, and create a future shaped closer to the communities it serves.
