Two in running to be borough leader

TWO councillors are in the running to become the next leader of Charnwood Borough Council.

Members of the council’s Conservative group are set to elect a new leader today (Wednesday November 1).

It follows the announcement at the start of October by Coun David Slater that he is stepping down after seven years as leader.

A Conservative source has told the Echo that councillors Jonathan Morgan and Renata Jones are the only nominated candidates to succeed him.

Coun Morgan is the deputy council leader and lead member for customer and community services and represents the Loughborough Outwoods ward.

He is also a Leicestershire county councillor for the area of Loughborough South West

Coun Jones is the Conservative group’s deputy group whip and represents the Birstall Wanlip ward.

In his resignation speech Coun Slater said: “I have to consider what is in the best long term interests of the council and I feel after seven years that the time is right to step down as leader and let someone new take the organisation into the future.

“I am incredibly proud of what the council has achieved while I have been leading it and I would like to thank my fellow members, staff and partners for their support.

“Leading the council has been a challenge, an enjoyable experience and I wish my successor all the best for the future.”