Council leader to stand down after 19 years

The Labour leader of Luton Council has announced she will stand down from the role on 19 May after nineteen years.

Hazel Simmons moved to the town in 1984 and began her political career as a councillor representing the town's Lewsey ward in 1991.

She was awarded an MBE in 2017 for services to local government and the community. With the next elections in Luton scheduled in 2027, Simmons said she intended to remain as a councillor.

In an open letter, she described the decision as "not an easy one", adding that she had "immense pride in what we have achieved together over the past 19 years".

Before becoming leader, Simmons served on the authority's executive and as deputy before being put in charge at an AGM in May 2007.

Her appointment followed an election where the Labour party returned to full control.

As she prepares to depart, Labour has double the number of councillors of the Liberal Democrat opposition.

She helped set up a youth café in Lewsey for young people at risk of offending and was one of the first members of the Luton All Women's Centre, which supports vulnerable young women and girls in the town.

In 2025, Simmons called the granting of the Development Consent Order for the expansion of Luton airport a "defining moment" in her time in the role.

She was in charge when Vauxhall owners Stellantis chose to shut its plant after 120 years, which she described as "devastating news".

In the open letter, she said Goodman's acquisition of the Vauxhall site, which it is hoped will deliver more than 2,000 new jobs, was "a symbol of confidence in Luton's future", along with plans for Luton Town's new football stadium at Power Court.

She said serving Luton had been "one of the greatest honours of her life".

Simmons said she had worked with four chief executives, 20 mayors and over 100 councillors.

"As one of the most diverse towns in England, with residents from many backgrounds, faiths, and cultures, I am especially proud that our community has remained united and resilient even in challenging times," she said.

"The strength of Luton has always been its people."

She added: "As we prepare to celebrate 150 years since Luton became a borough, we can look forward to a year filled with community spirit and pride, from the Victorian Market on St George's Day to the return of carnival to Wardown Park as they celebrate their half century."

The Labour Party has been approached for comment.

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