First Female Leader of Chewell in 30 years Announced

Liberal Democrat councillor Lesley McLean has been appointed Leader of Cherwell District Council, becoming the first woman to lead the authority in 30 years.

Councillor Chris Brant has been appointed Deputy Leader.

Speaking after her appointment, Councillor Lesley McLean said:

“I am very honoured to become Leader of Cherwell District Council. I appreciate the trust that residents have placed in this administration, and the confidence my colleagues have shown in me. I am proud to take on this responsibility at a time when councils across the country are under significant pressure. We will continue building on the efficiencies already underway while protecting the frontline services our residents and communities rely on.

"This administration will continue to listen to residents, work closely with local communities, and deliver for every part of Cherwell.”

Deputy Leader Councillor Chris Brant said:

“During the election, people told me they could see the difference a Liberal Democrat-led council was making locally. From the introduction of kerbside glass recycling to working hard in local communities and securing the future of Banbury Museum, residents are seeing change. We will continue to focus on practical solutions that deliver value for money and protect services.”

The appointment was confirmed at Cherwell District Council’s Annual Meeting (20 May) following the recent local elections, which saw the Liberal Democrats become the largest party on the council with 20 councillors, gaining four seats. However, the council remains under No Overall Control.

The Liberal Democrats will enter into a minority administration with the Green Party.

Cllr Ian Middleton Leader of the Green Party Group said:

“I’m very pleased that our two parties are going to be continuing as an alliance in joint control of the council. Over the past two years we’ve worked very well together, delivering many positive improvements in local services, and I look forward to building on that record over the coming year. With the challenge of Local Government Reorganisation ahead of us, we need the kind of strong and well-managed administration we have already demonstrated to ensure we get the best outcome for all the residents of Cherwell.”

A key focus will be Local Government Reorganisation. Oxfordshire is expected to receive a decision from central government on a range of proposals in the next month.

Among the options being considered is the District Council’s preferred proposal for a new unitary authority covering Cherwell, West Oxfordshire and Oxford City councils. The Liberal Democrats said the final decision rests with central government.

This is essential that Cherwell is placed in the strongest possible financial and operational position ahead of any changes.

The Liberal Democrats have also accelerated work on the Cherwell Local Plan, which is now awaiting examination by the Planning Inspectorate.

This comes against the backdrop of the Labour Government’s national “build, build, build” approach to development, which risks placing pressure on communities without sufficient local safeguards and essential infrastructure. The new Local Plan would strengthen protections for areas not allocated for development, while focusing growth within town centres to support regeneration and investment in existing communities.