Hertfordshire

New Leaders Agree To Run Welwyn Hatfield Council Together

By

Karen McGinn
20 February 2026, 10:06 am

The Labour and Liberal Democrat groups have signed a new agreement to run the Welwyn Hatfield Borough Council in Hertfordshire. This deal, reached in February 2026, aims to provide stability for local services and budgets after a period of political change.

Councillor Rose Grewal was elected as the new council leader on February 6, 2026, following the resignation of the previous leader, Max Holloway. New cabinet changes were also confirmed, with Councillor Sandreni Bonfante taking over the role of deputy leader as part of the deal.

The partnership was renewed after the two groups almost split in January 2026 because of a disagreement over the decision to delay local elections. This new joint administration has now approved a business plan that includes spending £368,000 on town centre improvements and business events.

This investment may help support popular community activities such as Screen on the Green. These outdoor cinema events are usually organised by Wonderful Welwyn Garden City in partnership with the council-run Campus West. The new leadership plans to use the dedicated funds to ensure these types of events continue to help the town thrive.

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