Wiltshire Council announces new Leader and Cabinet confirmed

Wiltshire Council has confirmed the appointment of Cllr Ian Thorn as its new Leader.

The decision was made following a vote by councillors at the Full Council meeting held today (20th May) at County Hall, Trowbridge. The vote, via a secret ballot, was as follows:

Cllr Ian Thorn – 50

Cllr Richard Clewer – 45

Abstention – 2

Cllr Thorn will lead a Liberal Democrat minority administration, marking the first time the party has led the council since it became a unitary authority in 2009.

Cllr Ian Thorn, Leader of Wiltshire Council, said: "It is a real privilege to be appointed as the Leader of Wiltshire Council. I am committed to ensuring respectful and thoughtful debate across all 98 councillors in Wiltshire. All councillors want what’s best for their communities and my administration will be open to collaboration with those from all parties, ensuring that we work together for the benefit of the people of Wiltshire.

“We want to create closer links with our communities and make sure their hopes, concerns and needs are reflected in all the decisions we make on their behalf. My Cabinet and I can’t wait to get started, and we have a plan in place to enable us to hit the ground running, ensuring we provide quality services while helping those most in need.”

Cllr Thorn's leadership aims to address the diverse needs of Wiltshire's residents. His vision includes encouraging constructive dialogue and mutual respect among councillors, which he believes is essential for effective governance.

In addition to the appointment of the new Leader, Wiltshire Council has also announced the members of the Cabinet who will support Cllr Thorn in his administration. The cabinet will consist of 10 members, including the Leader of the Council, who will also take on responsibility for Communications and Transformation. Collectively, the Cabinet has responsibility for making day-to-day decisions within the council.

The new Cabinet members will play a crucial role in implementing the council's policies and initiatives, working closely with Cllr Thorn to achieve the administration's goals.

The Cabinet Members are as follows:

• Cllr Mel Jacob: Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Communities, Engagement, and Corporate Services 
• Cllr Gordon King: Adult Social Care
• Cllr Gavin Grant: Finance
• Cllr Adrian Foster: Strategic Planning, Development Management and Housing
• Cllr Jon Hubbard: Children's Services, Education and Skills
• Cllr Helen Belcher:  Economic Development, Regeneration and Assets
• Cllr Paul Sample: Environment, Climate and Waste,
• Cllr Martin Smith: Highways, Streetscene and Flooding
• Cllr Clare Cape: Public Health and Co-ordination with the NHS

At Full Council, Cllr Laura Mayes was elected Chairman of the Council and Cllr Ruth Hopkinson as Vice-Chairman.