THE LEADER of Solihull Council has announced he is stepping down after six years.
Councillor Ian Courts made the announcement at the Annual Council meeting on Tuesday (May 13) but said he would continue as an active councillor in the borough.
He said: “During my six years as leader, we have had Covid and health issues, the cost-of-living crisis, wars and migration, a deepening climate crisis, all having local effects; ongoing political turmoil; awful children’s tragedies.
“We have tackled a vital and overdue improvement journey on our Children’s Services and have listened with growing pride in the team as evidence of success on this unfurls.
“Then there is the financial crisis that local government is facing everywhere, coupled with the continuing need to tackle the root of the social and regeneration issues faced. We know there is still much to do – our work goes on.”
Coun Courts’ decision means he also relinquished his role as leader of the Conservative Group in Solihull.
Coun Karen Grinsell is set to become the first female leader of Solihull Council as she takes over the reigns from Coun Courts.
Coun Courts said: “I am pleased to be succeeded by Coun Grinsell, with whom I have worked for so many years.
“She will be supported by a highly capable Cabinet team.
“I wish her every success in our continuing journey to make Solihull a borough of opportunity, success and ambition.
“She has plenty of experience as Deputy Leader of the Council and is a Silhillian to her core.
“She will bring new energy and new ideas to the role. I will be taking on her previous role as deputy leader, which will ensure stability and continuity as we move forwards in the wide agenda that the Council has before it.”
