Council leader shortlisted for national award

Oldham Council Leader says she is deeply honoured to be nominated for a top award.

Councillor Arooj Shah has been shortlisted for Leader of the Year Award by the Local Government information Unit (LGiU) & CCLA Cllr Awards 2025. 

The LGIU & CCLA Cllr Awards are the only national Awards to recognise and honour the hard work and dedication of councillors.

On their website, they state that the awards are a platform to celebrate the vital contributions that these heroes of our local democracy make to communities and the lives of residents across England, Wales and Scotland. 

Oldham Council Leader Cllr Arooj Shah said: “I’m deeply honoured to be nominated for Leader of the Year. For me, this recognition is not just personal – it’s for the people of Oldham. Everything I do comes back to the community where I was born and raised, and I’m incredibly proud to serve them. 

“When I first entered politics, my goal was simple: to make life better for the people of the borough where I grew up. Over the years, this has meant tackling inequality, rebuilding trust, and putting residents at the heart of every decision. 

“I’m especially proud that, together, we’ve delivered real change – from over 1,000 new affordable homes and a once-in-a-generation regeneration of our town centre, to Oldham’s Children’s Services being rated Good by Ofsted after years of challenges and Oldham Council named the Most Improved Council at the Local Government Chronicle Awards 2025. These are achievements that belong to our whole community. 

“I know the road hasn’t always been easy, but I’ve always remained focused on what matters: improving lives, giving people hope, and restoring pride in Oldham. 

“This nomination is a reminder of how far we’ve come – and of my commitment to keep working hard for Oldham and its people. It is their trust, their ambition, and their belief in change that makes progress possible.” 

The winners in England & Wales will be announced at the Guildhall in London at 7pm on November 18, 2025.