Conservative councillors have launched a petition calling for the York and North Yorkshire Mayor to pay for a controversial new logo out of his own pocket.
York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority and Labour Mayor David Skaith were criticised this week for spending £31,360 on a rebranding exercise.
Political opponents including North Yorkshire Council executive member, Keane Duncan, who lost out to Mr Skaith at the 2024 mayoral election, said the new logo was a waste of money and questioned why it did not include a traditional Yorkshire white rose.
York Conservatives have now created a petition urging the Mayor to pay for the new branding out of his annual salary of £81,300.
The leader of the Conservative Group on the City of York Council, Chris Steward, said:
“Yesterday, David Skaith defended his logo as representing good value for money. Today, we’re putting that claim to the test.
“This logo costs more than most local people earn in an entire year. We think that the mayor should pay the money back from his huge taxpayer-funded salary, and so we’re launching this petition to give people the chance to have their say.
“Even if the cost of this logo had been much less, it’s ridiculous that David Skaith has managed to come up with a design which doesn’t feature any of the symbols which define York and North Yorkshire, including the iconic white rose.
“The whole thing is a vain, pointless, waste of money – and it’s time David Skaith was held to account for this madness.”
The Mayor has defended the expenditure however saying it is vital the organisation has a strong unifying brand.
He said he was “dedicated to ensuring value for money” and added that a strong professional brand would “support the authority as it sought inward investment, managed the region’s transport network and built safe places for all”.
For more details on the petition, visit www.yorkconservatives.co.uk/mayors-logo-petition
Accessibility boost as new changing places toilet opens in Malham
Tourist tax would be 'total game changer', says Mayor
Skipton Charity golf day to be held for 2025 Pride of Britain winner
North Yorkshire taxi drivers call for fare increase to offset Iran War fuel increases
Devolution will fail if decisions are York-centric, say angry North Yorkshire councillors
Craven Lawn Tennis Club to open grounds for fundraising weekend
Tory councillor used photo of tragedy which claimed the lives of 116 children to make point on social media
Airedale Hospital's cancer team launch radiotherapy website
Skipton MP raises concerns over changes to 580 bus service
Lothersdale and Glusburn students to climb Yorkshire Three Peaks for Airedale Hospital
Police investigate assault in Skipton
Glusburn Community & Arts Centre calls for funds to keep the lights on
Northern passengers reminded some train times will change from Sunday
Jumble sale to be held in aid of woman's cancer journey
Thornton Hall Country Park Continues to Grow with New Team Members
Skipton Boxing Club nominated for 'Local Hero' award
Skipton Beer Festival shares 2026 lineup
Clubberthon raises over £7,000 for hospice charity
Your Skipton collaborates with Skipton BID for first visual podcast
Skipton BID to host first ever launch event for Skipton Business Awards 2026
