Bore to stand down as Birmingham City Council leader

Sir Albert Bore has been one of the councillors representing Ladywood ward for 35 years

Sir Albert Bore is to stand down as leader of Birmingham City Council.

Sir Albert said in a statement: "A new voice will see Birmingham through the next period in its history."

His resignation follows that of two other senior Labour figures who resigned after criticising the way the party was being run in the city.

Val Seabright resigned as the secretary of the Labour group this week and James McKay stood down as cabinet member for inclusion and community safety.

Mr McKay posted a resignation letter on his Twitter feed last week saying he did not think Sir Albert was the right man to make the changes he felt the city needed.

Birmingham City Council serves one million people and is one of Europe's largest local authorities

Sir Albert, who became council leader in 2012, said the role had been "an honour and a privilege" and he would now concentrate on finding the right successor. He plans to stand down in December.

"As leader, for some years now, the people of Birmingham have always come first.

"I've had a vision for Birmingham and I want to ensure someone else is in place to see through the work that I've started," his statement said.

"What we also need at the moment is some stability rather than the distraction within the council and the media of how long I might remain as leader.

"This is drawing attention away from the work that the city council needs to drive forward."

Analysis: Kath Stanczyszyn, Political Reporter, BBC WM

This has been brewing for some time. It is certainly the most significant period of turmoil that the party has had for a while. Sir Albert is part of the fabric of the Labour party in Birmingham. A councillor for 35 years and [party] leader for 16 years.

He has managed to see off other attempts to oust him but this was just too strong. The feeling in the Labour party is that actually some of his traditional support is fading away and it is time for him to go which he obviously is now doing.

Sir Albert said there were several "essential" items for the city, including the work of the Independent Improvement Panel, which was set up on Sir Bob Kerslake's recommendation to oversee changes at the council.

Sir Albert said the delivery of a Combined Authority and a Devolution Deal with the government as well an agreement on budget parameters were also key.

"These projects are crucial for the future prosperity and economic security of the city," he said.

Sir Albert said he had asked the Labour party to think about an election process for a new group leader which will allow him to step aside as council leader.

Councillor Ian Ward, Deputy Leader of the council said Sir Albert had "made a huge contribution to Birmingham".

"His drive, enthusiasm and commitment have changed the shape of the city to the benefit of Birmingham citizens. He has been an inspirational leader.

"I have worked closely with him for over 15 years and have learnt a great deal from his selfless dedication to public service. I owe him a great debt of gratitude."