Hartlepool Council leader steps down after 4 months in the role
The search is on for a new leader of Hartlepool Borough Council.
The search is on for a new leader of Hartlepool Borough Council.
Reform councillor Graham Harrison's announced he is stepping down just four months into the role, citing person reasons.
The council said a new leader will be appointed at a meeting on September 15.
Mr Harrison said: “It has been a tremendous honour and privilege to serve as leader of Hartlepool Borough Council and to represent our town in this role.
“In recent weeks, there has been a change in my personal circumstances and, after careful consideration, I have concluded that I am no longer able to commit the time required to fulfil the duties of leader.
“The role is, in effect, a full-time commitment and I do not believe it would be right to continue if I cannot give it the time and attention it deserves.”
He said: “This has been a very difficult decision and certainly not one I have taken lightly.
“However, I believe it is the right decision both for me personally and for the council.”
Mr Harrison said he plans remain a councillor in the Burn Valley ward – a seat he won from Labour in the May elections.
Reform UK won all of the 12 seats up for election in May, and it is now the largest party with 15 seats on the 36-member council.