'I’m extremely proud to have served Cherwell': Leader of district council steps down after two years
Cllr David Hingley has announced he is stepping down as leader of Cherwell District Council after two years in the role.
Mr Hingley has also resigned from his role as leader of the Liberal Democrat Group at Cherwell District Council.
The councillor was Cherwell District Council’s first Liberal Democrat leader, following the local elections in 2024, when the Lib Dems became the biggest party on the council.
He will continue to serve as a county councillor and district councillor but says he has quit his leadership roles to focus more time on his professional commitments.
Cllr David Hingley said: “I’m extremely proud to have served Cherwell as the first ever Liberal Democrat leader of the council for the past two years.
“It has been a real honour, and while I am stepping back from the leadership, I am looking forward to serving in a different capacity. Following last week’s elections, I will continue to represent Adderbury, Bloxham, Bodicote and Milton with the dedication these special villages deserve.
“I’d like to thank all the members of my administration and the staff of the council for their commitment to Cherwell and their support, and I know that our district will continue onwards in very safe hands.”
At last week’s elections the Liberal Democrats gained four new councillors across the district, taking the party’s total number of councillors to 20.
They continue to be the largest party at Cherwell District Council.
Cllr Lesley McLean and Cllr Chris Brant will be put forward by the Lib Dem group for election as council leader and deputy leader, respectively, at the annual council meeting on May 20.
The Liberal Democrat Group at Cherwell District Council has thanked Cllr Hingley for “his strong leadership, commitment and service to residents across Cherwell.”
A spokesperson for the Liberal Democrat Group at Cherwell District Council said: “As the largest group on Cherwell District Council, the Liberal Democrats are committed to continuing to deliver for residents, strengthening local services, and providing stable and effective leadership across the authority, ensuring good value, high-quality services, and that every penny of public money is spent wisely.”