Left in limbo by shake-up at town hall

Deputy leader Alan Vincent and Coun Peter Murphy will find out today if their removal from the cabinet has been upheld.

But, in a further twist, the two men lined up to replace them yesterday declined the roles. Coun Howard Ballard had been offered Coun Vincent’s resources portfolio while Coun Barry Birch was put forward for the vacant planning and economic development post.

It means the two posts will be up for grabs if the changes are upheld.

Coun Gibson said he could not comment on his decision to remove Couns Vincent and Murphy until the process is complete, saying only: “There were a number of different reasons.”

Coun Murphy said: “In a way it comes as a shock. The leader seems to be able to do what he wants, when he wants.”

Couns Vincent, Ballard and Birch were not available for comment yesterday.

After Couns Ballard and Birch declined the vacant roles, Fleetwood MP Cat Smith said: “The people of Wyre need a fully functioning council.

“It’s clear the current Wyre Council Leader cannot command the confidence of his colleagues.

“Councillor Gibson should consider his position and allow for a new leader at Wyre in the interests of delivering effective local governance.”