Lib Dem leaders at district and county councils stand down from roles
13/05/2026
Both will remain as councillors
The Liberal Democrat leaders of Cherwell District and Oxfordshire County councils have both stood down from their leadership roles.
David Hingley, who was re-elected for Adderbury, Bloxham and Bodicote last week, is stepping away at Cherwell so he can focus more time on his professional commitments.
Liz Leffman is moving away from the same function at County Hall, noting she won’t be standing again when elections for a new unitary authority take place.
Both will continue in their roles as councillors for the time being.
Councillor Hingley said: “I’m extremely proud to have served Cherwell as the first ever Liberal Democrat Leader of the Council for the past two years. It has been a real honour, and while I am stepping back from the leadership I am looking forward to serving in a different capacity. Following last week’s elections, I will continue to represent Adderbury, Bloxham, Bodicote and Milton with the dedication these special villages deserve.”
The Liberal Democrat Group have selected Councillor Lesley McLean as their Group Leader and Councillor Chris Brant as Deputy. The group plan to nominate them as leader and deputy leader of Cherwell District Council at the next full meeting on May 20.
The announcement of Councillor Leffman standing down as leader at County Hall came just after the council’s Annual Meeting. During that a report was presented noting the council’s Cabinet positions for the next twelve months, with Councillor Leffman included as leader.
A special meeting of the council must now be held on May 20 to elect a new leader.
Following the announcement Councillor 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. I do intend to remain as a member of cabinet.
“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.”
Published: by the Banbury FM News Team
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