South Kesteven District Council leader Richard Cleaver announced that he will be stepping down, and speculation is growing regarding the future leadership of the authority.

The Independent councillor, who assumed leadership from former Conservative Leader Kelham Cooke following last year's local elections, is set to step down in the next week, paving the way for the election of a new leader at the next Full Council meeting on January 25.

This leadership transition aligns with an agreement made when he assumed office in May last year, which stipulated a review and potential renewal of leadership by the majority group in January. Current speculation suggests Deputy Leader Ashley Baxter (Independent) as the likely successor.

In his parting message, Cllr Cleaver said: "Serving as the Leader of South Kesteven District Council as part of a new administration has been a real honour. It is a demanding role but I have had an incredible few months leading a new dynamic cabinet during which time I believe the council has made good progress, not least in being open and transparent in how we operate.

"I would also like to pay tribute to officers for their invaluable support and advice throughout my time as leader." He added: "The new administration has introduced a Housing Scrutiny Committee and is determined to continue work to improve housing services.

"This is one of the priorities in the council's new corporate plan that will emerge over the next few weeks and will set out all our future priorities and objectives. There is still much to be done and I am looking forward to playing a full part in that as l continue to serve as both a district councillor for Stamford St John's and in other council roles."

Councillor Baxter acknowledged his colleague's effective leadership, stating he had done a "job well done." He remarked: "Councillor Richard Cleaver has done a grand job in creating an atmosphere in which people can work collaboratively across parties.

"We have also started to sort out of some of the legacy issues that were left by the previously conservative administration."

Councillor Tim Harrison (Independent) stated that the transition was "planned from day one," noting a "gentleman's agreement" between Councillors Cleaver and Baxter.

This agreement entailed Cleaver "steadying the ship" until January, paving the way for the subsequent leadership change in January.

"Councillor Cleaver has done a fantastic job and all they are doing is swapping roles," said Councillor Harrison. "They are still going to work together as they were before, they're just sharing the workload."

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