Milton Keynes Labour appoints first female leader

Milton Keynes Labour has elected Cllr Lauren Townsend as the new Leader of the Labour Group, following yesterday’s local elections, becoming the first woman to hold the position.

Born and raised in Milton Keynes, Cllr Lauren Townsend has represented local residents as a councillor since 2019. She previously served as Deputy Leader and as Cabinet Member for Resources and Customer Experience on the Labour‑led city council administration.

Milton Keynes Labour has also appointed Cllr Donna Fuller as Deputy Leader of the group.

Labour in Milton Keynes defied national polling, which had them only winning one ward in the city, to elect 19 councillors and secure over twice as many seats as Reform UK. Overall, progressive parties in the city won 65% of the seats on Milton Keynes City Council.

Cllr Lauren Townsend, Leader of Milton Keynes Labour, said:

“I am incredibly proud of our city and of the people who make it such a forward‑looking and progressive place to live. With one of the highest voter turnouts we’ve seen in the city, residents turned out to defy the polls and make clear that Milton Keynes rejects Reform-style politics. It is a powerful statement of belief in our city’s future, and I am proud to live in and represent a city that continues to lead the way.”

“I would also like to thank all our councillors for their commitment and service, including our former Leader, Pete Marland, whose dedication over 12 years has helped make Milton Keynes the successful, well‑run city it is today. His leadership leaves a strong legacy we are proud to build upon.”

Cllr Donna Fuller, Deputy Leader of Milton Keynes Labour, added:

“It is a great honour to have been elected by the Milton Keynes Labour Group to serve as Deputy Leader. I am proud of the people of Milton Keynes for turning out to make their voices heard and to stand up for the future of their city.

“I look forward to working hard to continue delivering the real change that people can clearly see across communities right across Milton Keynes.”