Lib Dem elected new leader of borough council

Cllr Julia McShane was elected as the new Leader of the Council at a Full Council meeting on 11 October. The change of leadership was part of the planned co-operative approach to run the Council jointly with the Residents for Guildford and Villages group (R4GV), which is now in its fourth year since the borough elections in 2019. Councillor McShane will remain as Leader until the next Borough Council elections in May 2023.

The Executive still includes four councillors from the Lib Dem group and four from R4GV. The current approach reflects the many shared priorities of these two groups and maximises the strengths of the partnership in serving the borough.

Leader of the Council, Cllr Julia McShane said:

"It is both an honour and a privilege to have the opportunity to lead Guildford Borough Council. As we move into the final phase of our joint administration we will continue to focus and prioritise residents' needs. Many people are facing financial challenges in this cost-of-living crisis. We will provide as much help and support as we can to all those who are or may be affected.

"We are also progressing our common aspiration of tackling climate change. We continue to work hard together to deliver what our residents want and deserve.

"I am very fortunate to have a strong Executive team of Lib Dem and R4GV councillors. This team is well supported by excellent officers. We will continue to work together to deliver the outcomes that the residents of this Borough deserve."