Cllr Stephen Karl Hunt has resigned as Leader of Neath Port Talbot Council for personal reasons, the authority said on 21 September 2026.
Cllr Hunt said: “The role of Council Leader carries a significant level of responsibility, time and commitment, and I believe it is important that whoever holds the position is able to give it the full attention and dedication it deserves.
“For personal reasons, I no longer have the time and capacity required to give the role the commitment necessary to do it justice. I have therefore taken the difficult decision to step down in what I believe is the best interests of the Council, its staff and, most importantly, the residents and communities of Neath Port Talbot.
“This is not a decision I have taken lightly, and I remain committed to serving the people of Neath Port Talbot. I will continue to serve as an Independent Councillor and will continue to work for the residents and communities I represent.”
He will continue as an Independent councillor for the Crynant, Onllwyn and Seven Sisters ward.
A new leader is due to be appointed at a council meeting currently scheduled for 14 October 2026. Deputy Leader Cllr Alun Llewelyn will exercise the functions of the Leader until then.
