‘Bolt from the blue’ as council leader resigns

I feel that now is a good time to pass the baton on to someone else who can continue work with colleagues to deliver the change our communities so desperately need in this very challenging world

It has come as a shock, a real bolt from the blue

Council deputy leader Mike Bell

Don Davies

NORTH Somerset Council leader Don Davies is to step down from his role – with his decision being described as a “bolt from the blue”.

Cllr Davies made the shock announcement over the weekend that he will be stepping down as leader of the independent group on North Somerset Council and consequently as leader of the authority.

It is understood he told members of the council in a series of telephone calls on Friday night before holding an independent group meeting on Saturday.

Cllr Davies has led the council since the local elections in 2019.

North Somerset Council deputy leader, Liberal Democrat Mike Bell, who was told the news on Friday night, said: “It has come as a shock, a real bolt from the blue.

“However, we have worked together well over the last three years and will continue to do so up to the next election.

“The change of leader, although surprising to many of us, is an opportunity to look again to make sure we are really focused on the priorities of the people of North Somerset.”

Councillors will now elect a new leader of the council at its full council meeting today.

Cllr Davies, who represents Pill, said: “I am very proud of what our partnership has achieved since taking power in 2019. When I became leader, I could not have imagined we would have to live through times like these.

“Not only have we had to deal with addressing the climate emergency against a backdrop of austerity and increased demand for our services, but we have had to respond to the Covid pandemic, and now navigate the additional cost pressures resulting from inflation and the war in Ukraine.

“I would like to thank colleagues, residents, and the exceptional commitment of our brilliant officers at North Somerset Council, without whom none of this would be possible.”

Councillors will take a vote on who they would like to become leader of the council until the next local elections in May 2023.

The Independent Group, the largest group on the authority, has selected Cllr Steve Bridger as their new leader and he will be nominated as the new council leader at the meeting at Weston Town Hall today.

Cllr Davies added: “As we approach the local elections here in North Somerset next May, I feel that now is a good time to pass the baton on to someone else who can continue work with colleagues to deliver the change our communities so desperately need in this very challenging world. I am sure that Cllr Steve Bridger is that person.”