Edward Heron has become the new Leader of New Forest District Council. His appointment follows the resignation of Barry Rickman after he was found guilty of an environmental offence. Conservative Councillor Heron has been a member of the cabinet since 2008 and Deputy Leader since 2009. He represents the Downlands and Forest ward to the north of Fordingbridge.
In his cabinet reshuffle, Councillor Heron has removed Alison Hoare from her environment portfolio. He has appointed Jill Cleary as his Deputy Leader and invited two new faces onto his top team. The full cabinet are:
- Leader of the Council – Edward Heron (was Deputy Leader)
- Planning, Regeneration and Infrastructure – Diane Andrews (was Community Services)
- Housing and Homelessness Services – Jill Cleary (continuing in portfolio)
- Environment and Coastal Services – Steve Davies (new cabinet member)
- Business, Tourism and High Streets – Michael Harris (continuing in post)
- Finance, Investment and Corporate Services – Jeremy Heron (continuing in post)
- People and Places – David Russell (new cabinet member)
- Partnering and Leisure – Mark Steele (continuing in post)
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