Morris Bright to become deputy leader of Hertfordshire County Council

Cllr Morris Bright will stay in his role as leader in Hertsmere but is playing a key role in the shake-up of the leadership at the county council following the shock departure of the Hertfordshire Conservative leader David Williams.

Mr Williams lost his his Harpenden North East seat at the 2021 local elections last week meaning his Hertfordshire County Council leadership role needs to be filled. 

At a meeting between the Tories' 46 county councillors on Monday, members backed Kings Langley county councillor Richard Roberts to take on Mr Williams' role, while Potters Bar West & Shenley county councillor, Cllr Bright, will replace Cllr Teresa Heritage as deputy leader.

Clllr Heritage, who comfortably retained Her Harpenden seat, is interim leader until May 25, when Cllr Roberts will take on the leadership role.

Cllr Richard Roberts, the new leader of Hertfordshire County Council. Credit: Herts CC

Commenting on his selection, Cllr Roberts, who had held the cabinet portfolio for adult care and mental health, paid tribute to the contribution made by Mr Williams.

He said: "I have really big shoes to fill. David Williams was a really significant figure for Hertfordshire and nationally.

"But I feel now is the right time to step forward to lead our council, our administration, for the next four years – and I am absolutely delighted."

David Williams, former leader of Hertfordshire County Council. Credit: Herts CC

In his cabinet role, Cllr Roberts has played a major role in the county’s response to the Covid-19, and among the big challenges facing the county council will be the recovery from the pandemic.

He said: "The pandemic has challenged all of us in a way in a way we never knew was going to happen. We have had two deadly waves – and we have post-covid syndrome in some of those who have caught the virus.

"And businesses – in particular the hospitality sector – have been hugely challenged by the impact of lockdown. My view is that we now need to work really closely with all our communities, as we come out of lockdown – just as we did during the pandemic itself."

Cllr Morris Bright, leader of Hertsmere Borough Council and county councillor for Potters Bar West & Shenley

On Cllr Bright's appointment as deputy group leader, Cllr Roberts said: "I couldn’t be more delighted to have Morris Bright as deputy. He brings the strength and character of the leader of Hertsmere Borough Council.

"He is a journalist by trade and he brings a welcome ebullience to the role. And I am indebted to him in supporting me for the next four years."