THE LABOUR group at Stroud District Council have elected a Dursley councillor as their new leader. 

The group of 20 councillors from the party have elected Terry Cook as their new leader, following the decision by the former leader, Cllr Steve Robinson, to step down this autumn.

Cllr Robinson continues as deputy leader. 

Cllr Cook was previously a city councillor and cabinet member in Bristol for four years, where he had responsibility for Local Democracy and Involvement, as well as the delivery of the cycling infrastructure in Bristol and South Gloucestershire.

He moved to Berkeley in 2018, and was elected as a Stroud District Councillor in May this year to represent Dursley ward. 

He said: “I’m honoured to have been given the opportunity to serve the Labour group as leader.

“We have an excellent team of councillors with hugely valuable skills and a wide range of experience that we’ll bring to bear for the benefit of the people and businesses in the Stroud area. 

“My immediate focus is on providing more affordable housing, reviving our high streets, listening to and supporting our more vulnerable residents, rebuilding our communities, and making headway on our commitment to tackle the climate emergency.

“I’m of course hugely grateful to Steve Robinson for his steadfast commitment and support as Councillor and Leader, and really appreciate his willingness to support me as Deputy Leader.

"His experience and balance are invaluable.”

Councillor Steve Robinson said: “It has been a privilege to lead the Labour group for the last 18 months, and I’m delighted to be handing over to Terry Cook.

"He will be a superb leader and I’m very happy that I can support him as his deputy as he beds into the role.

"I’m also looking forward to having a little more time to spend in my ward with local residents and the thriving businesses that make Nailsworth special.”