Councillor Gary Sumner has been elected as the new Leader of Swindon Borough Council following a vote at the authority’s Annual Council meeting.
The meeting, held at the Civic Offices on Thursday, 22 May, was attended by all 57 councillors and confirmed Cllr Sumner as Leader after the Conservative Group chose to form a minority administration rather than enter into a formal coalition agreement.
Cllr Sumner, who leads the Conservative Group on the council, said his focus would be on stability and practical decision-making at what he described as an important time for the borough.
“It’s a privilege to take on the role of Leader at such an important time for Swindon,” he said.
“Residents expect stability, responsible decision-making and a clear focus on the issues that matter most to them.
“As a minority administration, we will work constructively with colleagues across the Council to find common ground and deliver practical results for our communities.”
He added that his priority would be to provide “steady leadership”, while ensuring residents’ concerns remain central to the council’s work.
As Council Leader, Cllr Sumner will oversee a range of responsibilities including inward investment, economic development, the Local Plan and the council’s relationships at local, regional and national level.
During the meeting he also announced the councillors who will form the authority’s new Cabinet.
Councillor Jake Chandler has been appointed Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Strategy, Resilience and Green Infrastructure.
The remaining Cabinet appointments are:
- Councillor Vinay Manro – Adults and Health
- Councillor Keith Williams – Finance, Recovery and Transformation
- Councillor Matthew Courtliff – Housing and Property
- Councillor Kate Tomlinson – Children and Education
- Councillor Nick Gardiner – Highways and Transport
- Councillor Matt Vallender – Culture, Planning and Regeneration
- Councillor Kevin Parry – Recycling and Streetscene
- Councillor Matt Hinton – Community Engagement, Safety and Services
The meeting also confirmed Councillor Neil Hopkins as Swindon’s new Mayor for the coming municipal year, replacing outgoing Mayor Councillor Fay Howard.
Councillor Gayle Cook was elected Deputy Mayor.
