Councillor Gale Waller has announced she is stepping down as Leader of Rutland County Council.

She has led the authority since 2023 and will continue to serve on Rutland County Council and as the member for the Normanton Ward.

Announcing the decision, Cllr Waller said: 'Leading Rutland County Council and working with my fellow councillors to serve our residents has been a tremendous honour.

'I am immensely proud of everything we have achieved together, despite the significant challenges facing our small but exception rural County.

'Amidst one of the busiest and most challenging periods that we have ever faced in local government, many people will know that I have become a grandmother.

'Having committed every ounce of my time, energy and focus to leading this Council over the past three years, I now want to spend time with my family.

'As we near the end of this municipal year, we have reached a point in time where Rutland's submission as part of Local Government Reorganisation is complete and we have received written assurances from Government regarding the retention of our civic status.

'We also have a balanced budget and ambitious capital programme that ensures Rutland's financial sustainability, whilst channelling major investment into the fabric of our communities - all while minimising any increase in Council Tax for residents.

'I look forward to continuing to serve Rutland and my constituents as both a Ward Member and County Councillor.'

Electing a new leader will be added to the agenda for Rutland Council's next full council meeting on Thursday 26 March.

Under the Council's Constitution, Deputy Leader Councillor Andrew Johnson assumes the role of Acting Leader until a new Leader is elected by Council.

-------------------------

READ MORE: 'We should be suspicious of the government's motives' says group concerned about Rutland's future

Free from clickbait, pop-up ads and unwanted surveys, Oakham Nub News is a quality online newspaper for Oakham and Rutland.

Subscribe to our FREE weekly newsletter email HERE- just click the 'SIGN UP' button.

Please consider following Oakham Nub News on Facebook and Twitter.