Wiltshire Council set for new leader as Philip Whitehead stands down
He's chosen to concentrate on the back benches
Last updated 10th May 2021
A new leader is imminent for Wiltshire Council, after Philip Whitehead resigned from the position.
The Councillor, who assumed the role in July 2019 following the departure of Baroness Jane Scott, says now is the right time to step down.
After being re-elected to Urchfont and Bishop Cannings on Saturday, Cllr Whitehead told the BBC that he will now concentrate on that post alone.
"I’ve been on the Council eight years. I will continue as a councillor and take that forward.
"Let’s make no bones about it, the last year have been incredible in terms of the working load," he said.
Since the start of the pandemic, Wiltshire Council has been running seven days a week. Cllr Whitehead said he had only taken 10 days holiday in the last 15 months, which he claimed was unsustainable.
Cllr Whitehead added that he is positive about his time as leader, having run a "fair, honest and transparent council".
'We are now in a position to forge ahead with the many ambitious plans'
During his time as leader, Mr Whitehead reduced the number of portfolio holders from 14 to 10 - representing a 15% cut in council administrative costs.
Wiltshire Council also went from three executive officers to one, under his watch. This move is understood to have saved the local authority 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 four year term.
"I have restricted the management team across the Council. 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".
'Commitment to genuine public service to residents across Wiltshire'
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.
"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".
On Tuesday 11 May, a new head of the Wiltshire Conservatives is expected to be decided.
Wiltshire Council would then formally appoint the role on 18 May.