Paul Jones has been elected as the new leader of Cannock Chase Council following a vote at Wednesday's annual meeting. The Hednesford Green Heath Ward councillor replaces Steve Thornley in the top position. Jones heads the Reform Group, which holds 14 of the council's 36 seats.
As leader of Cannock Chase Council, Jones will take responsibility for overseeing Local Government Reorganisation and Regeneration initiatives. He is also a serving Staffordshire County Councillor, bringing wider experience to the role. Jones has appointed six fellow Reform Group members to his cabinet team, with Richard Craddock taking the deputy leader position.
The new Cannock leader has pledged to work across party lines for the benefit of the community. This cross-party approach aims to deliver better outcomes for residents regardless of political differences. The commitment signals an inclusive approach to council leadership.
The annual meeting also saw Andrea Muckley from the Green Party elected as chair of Cannock Chase Council. These leadership changes mark a significant shift in the council's direction as it tackles major challenges including local regeneration and government reorganisation affecting the area.