Southampton council leadership appointment welcomed by Eastleigh
Eastleigh Borough Council Leader, Councillor Keith House has welcomed the appointment of his new counterpart at Southampton City Council.
Councillor Alex Winning was elected leader of the authority at its full council meeting on Wednesday (16 July).
The appointment comes at a time when both councils are poised to undergo the biggest shake-up of local democracy in England for half a century as the Government consults on plans to devolve power to regional mayors - and create much larger, unitary authorities by merging city, borough and district councils.
Councillor House said: “I’d like to congratulate Alex Winning on his election as leader and wish him every success in his new role. His appointment comes at a crucial time for councils as we are in the early stages of the biggest reorganisation in local government for over 50 years.
“With the challenges and opportunities presented by this new phase in local democracy it is vital that neighbouring authorities are closely aligned in a spirit of openness and cooperation. I look forward to our councils working in close partnership to secure the best result for residents, businesses and other stakeholders across the region.”