Blackpool councillor gives reason for resignation in surprise announcement

Sunday, 2 November 2025 10:15

By Richard Hunt

A Blackpool councillor has announced her resignation and explained why she has stepped down.

Councillor Julie Jones had represented the Greenlands ward in Bispham, as a Labour member on Blackpool Council, since the local elections in 2023.

She previously contested the Norbreck ward for Labour in 2021, but was not elected.

Cllr Jones released a statement on Thursday, confirming her decision to stand down, prompting a tribute from the local Labour group.

The Blackpool-born councillor said: “I understand that my resignation may seem sudden to some but it is something that I have been considering for a while.

“The role of a councillor demands a hundred percent commitment which I feel at this time I am unable to meet due to increasing demands from my family and health matters.

“It would be unfair of me to continue in the role as I am now unable to give it the attention it deserves. I am grateful for the opportunity the residents have given me to serve them as their local councillor.”

The Blackpool Labour Party commented: “We are very sad to lose Julie from our team but we offer her our full support and thank her for an exceptional 2 and a half years as a councillor.

“She has demonstrated the positive difference a Labour councillor can make and has been fully active representing her ward and contributing to the various committees she was involved with.”

A by-election is expected to be called to allow potential candidates to fill the vacant seat.