Rushcliffe Borough Council appoints Conservative Neil Clarke, who represents Radcliffe, as its leader for a second time

The Conservative Group at Rushcliffe Borough Council has selected Neil Clarke to become their new leader.

Mr Clarke was proposed at the council’s annual meeting by the party, who remain the largest group at the authority, replacing Simon Robinson who stood down at the local elections earlier this month.

Mr Clarke previously served as leader for 12 years from 2005 to 2017 and continues to perform roles in the Local Government Association.

The council’s cabinet was also announced as deputy leader and portfolio holder for business and growth Abby Brennan, portfolio holder for finance Davinder Virdi, portfolio holder for transformation, leisure and wellbeing Jonathan Wheeler, environment and safety, Rob Inglis, ortfolio holder planning and housing, Roger Upton.

Mr Clarke was first elected to the council in 1986 and continues to represent the Radcliffe-on-Trent ward.

He said:“I’m proud to again represent and lead Rushcliffe Borough Council.

“Having entered this new election cycle until 2027, we continue to face many challenges as an authority but also a great future in front of us as we deliver value services with one of the lowest council tax levels in the country.

“We must continue Rushcliffe’s outstanding reputation as a superb council.

“A thank you to outgoing leader Simon Robinson who presided over a successful six years in office and I will look to build further on some of the major projects of recent years, not least the new Bingham Arena leisure centre.

“It’s a shining example of our ‘Great Place, Great Lifestyle, Great Sport’ focus of life here in Rushcliffe.”