Leader of Hampshire County Council steps down

A councillor has announced he is stepping down as leader of Hampshire County Council.

Rob Humby, said he has “always been immensely proud to serve the people of Hampshire.”

He has spent many years as a Winchester councillor, holding a variety of roles including deputy leader and leader of the council.

A new Hampshire County Council leader will be elected at an AGM on Thursday 23 May 2024.

Since 2013, Mr Humby has represented the Bishop’s Waltham electoral division at Hampshire County Council and has previously held the position of cabinet member for economy, transport and environment.

He was deputy leader of Hampshire County Council between 2019 and 2022, and was elected leader in May 2022.

Mr Humby who is born and bred in Hampshire said: “It is with deep regret that I announce my plans to step down after two years as county council leader and retire from local politics before the 2025 county council elections.”

He explained that by standing down he will now have more time to spend with his family, children and grandchildren.

He said the council has "a strong reputation for doing the right thing, and doing things extremely well – with the courage and tenacity to successfully overcome challenges and keep delivering some of the best local services in the country.”

He added: “I wish to thank the authority’s chief executive, Carolyn Williamson, and her teams across the organisation for their ongoing professionalism, integrity, and unwavering commitment.

“Also, my sincere thanks to deputy leader, councillor Roz Chadd for her fantastic support and hard work, and the efforts of my cabinet and all of Hampshire county councillors in their continued dedication to serving local residents.”

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