Wiltshire Council set to get new leader as Philip Whitehead stands down

Mr Whitehead, who took over over the role in 2019 following the departure of Baroness Jane Scott, says now is the right time to step down

He was re-elected to Urchfont and Bishop Cannings on Saturday and told the BBC he will concentrate on that.

"I’ve been on the council eight years. I will continue as a councillor and take that forward"

TOUGH YEAR

"Let’s make no bones about it, the last year have been incredible in terms of the working load."

Since the pandemic, the council has been running seven-days a week and Cllr Whitehead said he had only taken 10 days holiday in the last 15 months which he said was not sustainable.

Cllr Whitehead added that he is positive about his time as leader having run a "fair, honest and transparent council"

SAVINGS

During his time as leader Mr Whitehead reduced the number of portfolio holders from 14 to 10 in 2020 which represented a 15% cut in administrative costs.

Under his watch Wiltshire Council went from three executive officers to one chief executive officer- the move is understood to have saved around £205,000 a year.

Mr Whitehead told Greatest Hits Radio;

"I think that at times one has to make positive decisions rather than fall into continuing with the status quo. There are times when this is accentuated and this is one, with the end of COVID and the beginning of a new 4 year term. I have restricted the management team across the council and we are now in a position to forge ahead with the many ambitious plans we have for the future and I feel that I have now completed my part in the leadership of that."

Terence Herbert, Chief Executive of Wiltshire Council, said:

"I've enjoyed a very positive and productive working relationship with Cllr Philip Whitehead over the years and, following his decision to step down as Leader, I wish him all the very best."

"In our response to the COVID-19 crisis, officers have worked closely with the Leader and cabinet to support the county through this very challenging time. Philip's leadership through the COVID-19 pandemic has shown his commitment to genuine public service to residents across Wiltshire. His business background has greatly benefited our economic development and COVID-19 response."

"I look forward to working with the next Leader of Wiltshire Council as we recover from the pandemic and we strive to continue to achieve positive outcomes for residents and provide quality services."

A new leader of the Wiltshire Conservatives is expected to be decided tomorrow (May 11).

Wiltshire Council would then formally appoint the role on May 18th.

• wiltshire council
• new leader
• philip whitehead
• local elections