Reform council leader Graham Harrison has announced he will step down as leader of Hartlepool Borough Council following a change in his personal circumstances.
Cllr Harrison said he was no longer able to commit the significant time required by the role, which he described as effectively a full-time commitment.
He said the decision had not been taken lightly, but that it was the right one both for him personally and for the council.
An extraordinary meeting of full council will be held on Tuesday 15 September, when councillors will appoint a new leader.
‘I would like to thank my fellow councillors, council officers, partners and residents for their support during my time as leader. It has been a privilege to work alongside so many dedicated people who care passionately about Hartlepool and its future,’ he said.
‘While I will be stepping down as leader, I remain fully committed to public service and will continue to represent the residents of Burn Valley as one of their ward councillors. I look forward to continuing to serve the community and support the town in that capacity.’
