Leader of New Forest District Council, Cllr Edward Heron, unexpectedly resigns at meeting

THE leader of New Forest District Council unexpectedly announced his resignation from the role during a meeting.

Cllr Edward Heron, who has served on the council for almost 16 years, thanked fellow councillors and officers last night (Monday) and said: "This evening I want to share with you my decision to step down as leader from this council and not to stand for re-election at the May 2023 district elections.

"After what is almost 16 years on the council, most of which has been serving on the cabinet, the time is right for me to look forward to new challenges.

"It is also the correct timing to ensure a new leader has the opportunity to set out their vision for the council until 2027 and time to prepare the budget in February."

He said the Conservative group, which has a majority seat on the council, would be nominating Cllr Jill Cleary as the new leader at the next council meeting on 14th November.

In an email to staff Cllr Heron said it had been "a great privilege to lead the council over these past near couple of years".

He added: "The highlight being the dedication of officers and all staff to the service of our community. This has been my inspiration for all that we have achieved and I am confident the council is in a good place to continue to deliver for our residents."