South Derbyshire District Council appoints new leader

Cllr Hilary Coyle has been named as the new Leader of South Derbyshire District Council.

It comes after Cllr Bob Wheeler revealed that he was stepping down from the role after more than seven years. 

The change was announced at a Full Council meeting on Thursday, January 18.

Cllr Coyle, a lecturer at the University of Derby, has represented the Aston ward for six years and also served two years as Deputy Leader of the Council.

Her aim is to continue to progress the corporate vision of making South Derbyshire a better place to live, work and visit.

Cllr Coyle said:           

“I am delighted to have been named as Leader of South Derbyshire District Council.

“Cllr Wheeler has run a very smooth ship and we have a strong foundation in place to build from. The experience and knowledge he has passed on to me has been extremely insightful.

“Residents are at the heart of what we do and we will do everything we can to further improve services for the people of South Derbyshire.”

Cllr Wheeler, who will continue to represent the Linton ward on the Council, has wished his successor all the best in her new role.

He said:

“Over the last seven years, despite challenging times, the Council has continued deliver more with less, with new projects such as Melbourne Sports Park and Midway Community Centre coming to fruition.

“We have continued to punch above our weight in Derbyshire and beyond and we can look to the future with confidence.

“It is my privilege to hand over the reins to Hilary. She stepped into being a parish councillor 17 years ago and has made a massive impact since joining the Council. Her energy and intelligence are infectious and she will bring a fresh approach and impetus to the role.”

The Deputy Leader of the Council is Martyn Ford, who represents Willington and Findern.

19 January 2018