Bev Craig has officially launched her campaign to become the next mayor of Greater Manchester after securing Labour’s nomination for the upcoming by-election.
Her selection comes after Andy Burnham stepped down from the mayoralty following his election as MP for Makerfield. As a result, voters across Greater Manchester will return to the polls on July 30. Currently, Craig leads Manchester City Council and has built a strong political reputation since taking office in 2021. Alongside that role, she serves on the Greater Manchester Combined Authority, where she has helped shape regional economic plans.
After her selection, Craig pledged to continue Labour’s work across the city-region. She said her campaign would focus on economic growth, housing, and transport. During her speech, Craig praised Greater Manchester’s history of progress and reform. She described the region as a place that changed her life and created opportunities she never expected.
According to Craig, devolution has given local communities greater power over their future. Because of that, she wants to protect those gains and expand them further. As evidence of progress, she pointed to transport reform, including bringing bus services back under public control. She also highlighted job creation and fresh investment across the region.
Despite those achievements, Craig admitted many families still struggle with rising living costs. Economic pressure, she said, remains a major challenge for workers and households. To address those concerns, she promised practical policies aimed at easing the burden. One proposal includes a New High Streets Fund to support town centres and local businesses.
At the same time, Craig plans to expand affordable housing and build more council homes. Her transport plan also includes widening the Bee Network and freezing fares. Labour officials say her campaign will build on Burnham’s devolution legacy while focusing on the region’s future needs.
Meanwhile, the by-election is becoming one of the most closely watched political contests this year. Labour hopes to hold one of its most important regional positions. However, Craig will face strong opposition. Both the Green Party and Reform UK are preparing major campaigns.
This vote will also mark the return of the supplementary voting system after Labour reversed earlier electoral reforms. With the race now underway, Craig enters as the frontrunner. For Greater Manchester, the election could shape the region’s next political chapter.
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