Brighton & Hove Councillor Shortlisted for National Young Councillor of the Year Award

Brighton & Hove councillor Jacob Allen has been shortlisted for Young Councillor of the Year at the 2025 LGIU and CCLA Cllr Awards, marking national recognition for his early impact in local government.

Now in their 16th year in England and 8th in Scotland, the awards spotlight the work of councillors across the UK—individuals often described as the unsung drivers of local democracy. More than 400 nominations were submitted across five categories this year, reflecting a particularly competitive field.

Allen, who was elected to Brighton & Hove City Council in 2023, serves as councillor for Woodingdean and sits in the Cabinet as the lead for Customer Services and Public Realm. His nomination highlights two pieces of work that have defined his first 18 months in office: his role in shaping the council’s progressive debt policy, and his commitment to creating the Woodingdean Wildflower Meadow, a project that ties back to his election pledge to boost biodiversity in the area.

The Young Councillor of the Year category recognises elected members under 30 who are making a significant contribution at an early stage in their public service careers. Organisers say young councillors bring “energy, fresh perspectives and new ways of engaging with communities”, while also helping to inspire future leaders.

Shortlists for England, Wales and Scotland were published this week, with Scottish winners announced on 5 November at Glasgow City Chambers. Winners for England and Wales will be revealed on 18 November at London’s Guildhall

The judging panel includes senior councillors and sector leaders, and the awards remain the only national scheme focused specifically on recognising the work of individual councillors. The programme is supported by founding partner CCLA.

Jonathan Carr-West, Chief Executive of LGIU, said the nominations reflect the “best of local government”, describing this year’s shortlist as a testament to the “dedication, creativity and leadership” shown across the country.

Lee Jagger, Local Government Relationship Manager at CCLA, added that each shortlisted councillor has made “a significant and positive impact” in their communities, noting the organisation’s long-standing support for the awards.

The Cllr Awards cover five categories: Community Champion, Leader of the Year, Young Councillor of the Year, Innovator of the Year and Lifetime Legend.

Allen continues to lead work in Brighton & Hove on improving public spaces, customer experience and digital transformation, alongside responsibilities for legal and democratic services.

Winners for England and Wales will be announced later this month.