THE LEADER of Gloucestershire County Council is standing down after more than 14 years in the role. 

Cllr Mark Hawthorne has announced today, Wednesday, July 24, that he will be standing down as leader of the council in September 2024.

Mark will continue in the role until a new leader is elected at the full council meeting in September and will carry on representing the people of Quedgeley until the elections next year.

Mark was first elected as a county councillor in 2009 and appointed as cabinet member for environment by then leader of the council Barry Dare, before being elected as leader of the Council in 2010.

Prior to his election to the county council, Mark served as leader of Gloucester City Council between 2004 and 2007. 

(Image: Other) A county council spokesperson added: "As a founding member of the Western Gateway, Mark has worked tirelessly to position Gloucestershire as a key player across the region and, through his role on the Local Enterprise Partnership Board has helped secure a billion-pound pipeline of national investment to deliver a range of significant infrastructure schemes and projects across the county – helping to achieve an ever more successful and prosperous Gloucestershire.

"Mark was also instrumental in securing Stage 7 of last year’s Tour of Britain for the county, showcasing to the world all that Gloucestershire has to offer."

Mr Hawthorne said: “It has been an enormous privilege to lead this council for the past 14 years.

"While deciding to take a step back has not been easy, I am looking forward to all that life after being leader has to offer.

"I will do all I can to support the new Leader to hit the ground running and will continue to represent the people of Quedgeley until the elections next year.

“It has been an honour to meet so many members of Gloucestershire communities over the years; to hear what is important to them; what is impacting on their lives and to do everything possible to address them.

“I am immensely proud of all that we have achieved on behalf of the county, but I have been particular pleased at the progress we have made on driving forwards the green agenda and for the transformation we have delivered across many of our services.

"The commitment and effort I have witnessed first-hand during my years as leader means I am confident that services will continue to go from strength to strength.

“It has not always been easy, in fact we have faced some incredibly challenging times, but it has always been rewarding and it has always been an honour.”   

Mark has also announced that he will, at their next group meeting, be stepping down as Leader of the Conservative Group.

It is expected that a new group leader will be elected at the same meeting.