New leader chosen for Cornwall Council
Liberal Democrat Leigh Frost will take the reins
The new leader of Cornwall Council says his priorities are working collaboratively with councillors across all parties - to do what's best for Cornwall.
The authority's Annual General Meeting has been taking place at New County Hall today (Tuesday 20th May).
Liberal Democrats Leigh Frost has been elected as leader.
That followed a vote by all councillors, with 53 voting in favour of Mr Frost as leader, and 25 councillors.
The Conservatives lost their majority in the local elections earlier this month (Thursday 1st May).
The newly elected Cornwall Council leader says his main focus is investing in affordable housing and infrastructure for people in the Duchy.
Cllr Frost, who represents Bodmin St Petrocs said: “As a proud Cornish boy, it is a real honour to be elected leader of the council.
“I want to build a better Cornwall, and we can do that through being a collaborative administration. The people of Cornwall have decided that no single party should have control of the council, and that we should work together to do our best for Cornwall.
“We need to get back to basics and focus on what really matters to our residents. There are real challenges facing us that we must tackle, but we will do so together.
“My message to residents is that we’re listening. It doesn’t matter who you voted for, we want to hear your views, to represent you and work for you, for the good of one and all.”
Cllr Frost has nominated Cllr Adam Paynter as his deputy leader, alongside his other eight supporting Cabinet members, with their portfolios yet to be confirmed.
The eight Cabinet members are: Cllr Jim McKenna, Cllr Hilary Frank, Cllr Tim Dwelly, Cllr Sarah Preece, Cllr Loic Rich, Cllr Peter La Broy, Cllr Dan Rogerson and Cllr Thalia Marrington.
Cllr Rob Nolan has been elected as the new Chairman of the Council, with Cllr John Thomas elected as Vice Chairman.