Leader of Lib Dem-led county council to step down

The leader of the Liberal Democrat-led Oxfordshire County Council has announced she will be stepping down.

Liz Leffman said she would not be standing for re-election in May next year.

She said in a statement: "It is right that I hand over the leadership in the run-up to these elections. I do intend to remain as a member of cabinet."

Tim Bearder will take over as leader for the Liberal Democrat group, while a date will be set for an extraordinary general meeting of the council to elect a new leader. Current deputy leader Neil Fawcett will lead In the interim.

Leffman said: "It has been a huge privilege to serve as leader of the county council since 2021.

"I have very much enjoyed the role and the connections that I have been able to make with people all over the county, in all walks of life, however, now is the time for me to stand down.

"In May 2027, we will be having elections for the new unitary council or councils, and as I will not be standing for election, it is right that I hand over the leadership in the run-up to these elections."

She added: "I know that while welcoming new members the cabinet will continue to steer Oxfordshire through local government reorganisation, devolution and the financial challenges that are facing many councils.

"We will also want to re-dedicate ourselves to our priorities based around climate action and sustainable economic growth."

Leffman, who will remain as a member of cabinet, is the third leader of the county council since the cabinet system was introduced in 2001.

On Monday Andrew Gant announced he was leaving the cabinet and his role as lead member for transport management. Rebekah Fletcher has since taken up the role.

Bearder is the cabinet member for adult care.