Martin Thacker to step down as NE Derbyshire District Council leader

A council leader is to step down from his post but will continue serving as a councillor.
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Martin Thacker will relinquish his role as leader of NE Derbyshire District Council at a meeting on July 13. He will stay on the council as the representative for Brampton and Walton.

Coun Thacker has been leader of the Conservative group at the council for a decade. He was the first Conservative to lead the entire council after the local elections in May last year.

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Explaining his decision, Coun Thacker said: “A number of reasons have meant I am unable to continue as leader and in due course I will be announcing other roles that mean continuing as leader is not compatible. In spite of future restrictions on my time I will continue as a councillor and serve in the administration where appropriate.”

Martin Thacker, leader of North East Derbyshire Council.Martin Thacker, leader of North East Derbyshire Council.
Martin Thacker, leader of North East Derbyshire Council.

Over the last thirteen months Coun Thacker has led a comprehensive reform and improvement plan, restructured the council to prepare for the future and he has won critical praise for his efforts in helping residents through the coronavirus crisis.

Coun Thacker said: “It has been a privilege to work with officers, colleagues and community groups over the past few months during these extremely difficult times. I am glad the council has been able to support our area so well.”

He added: “Having steered the council through coronavirus, now is the right time for me to focus on other opportunities and continue to serve my community. I look forward to continuing to serve my constituents in the Brampton and Walton ward, as well as continuing to support the administration in its aim to make North East Derbyshire an even better place to live, work and raise a family.”

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Coun Alex Dale, deputy leader, said: “Martin’s stamina and resolve over the coronavirus has been incredible and it is only because of him that we have been able to help so many residents. He has been rightly praised in Parliament for the work that he and the council have done.”

Chesterfield born Coun Thacker has served as a councillor for 17 years, 13 of which have been spent with North-East Derbyshire.