Julia McShane is the new Liberal Democrat leader on Guildford Borough Council

Following the retirement of Caroline Reeves after many years of public service, the Liberal Democrat group at Guildford Borough Council are pleased to announce that their new Group Leader is Cllr Julia McShane (Westborough).

Julia was born in Guildford. She grew up, went to school and still lives in Park Barn, and has been representing her community as a borough councillor since 2011. She was already the Lead Member for Community on Guildford Borough Council Executive and will be taking on responsibility for Housing as part of her expanded portfolio.

Julia McShane said: "I'm really looking forward to working with the group over the coming weeks to keep our momentum going for the local elections in May. "Despite the progress we've already made, key challenges such as the climate emergency, housing, protecting public services, and supporting jobs and the local economy still remain. As a Guildfordian born and bred I'm determined that we deliver for our town and borough. This will be more important than ever as we emerge on the other side of the pandemic.

"I'm excited to be leading a team of caring and committed councillors who have the community at the heart of all their work. As we move past lockdown it will be great for us to meet physically again and enjoy the energising group spirit that comes from in person shared conversations."

Julia will be supported in her role by Cllr George Potter (Burpham) who is the new Deputy Group Leader.

Cllr Tom Hunt (Friary & St Nicolas) will be joining GBC Executive as the new Lead Member for Development Management, and Cllr Jan Harwood (Merrow) will be the new Deputy Council Leader in addition to his existing responsibilities as Lead Member for Climate Change.