Councillor Graham Harrison has advised that he is no longer able to commit the significant amount of time required to carry out the responsibilities of leader, a role that effectively demands a full-time commitment.
An extraordinary meeting of Hartlepool’s Full Council was expected to appoint a new leader.
Councillor 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.”
He went on: “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. 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.”
Coun. Harrison added: “I would like to thank my fellow councillors, council officers, partners and residents for their support during my time as leader. It has been a privilege to work alongside so many dedicated people who care passionately about Hartlepool and its future. While I will be stepping down as leader, I remain fully committed to public service and will continue to represent the residents of Burn Valley as one of their ward councillors. I look forward to continuing to serve the community and support the town in that capacity.”
Author: Hartlepool Life
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