The leader of Newcastle City Council has taken a temporary leave of absence due to ill health.
The local authority announced on Friday that Nick Kemp, who became leader in 2022, was stepping back with immediate effect.
Deputy Karen Kilgour will act as leader during his absence. She said it was ‘very much business as usual’.
Cllr Kilgour added: ‘I will be working with elected members and council officers to ensure there is continuity in our planning so we can continue to deliver against our strategic priorities.
‘This is such an exciting time for Newcastle with investment in the city and opportunity for those people who call it home.’
