Richard Roberts to become new leader of Hertfordshire County Council

Richard Roberts, who serves as a county councillor Kings Langley, was backed to take on the role following a meeting between Tory members on Monday afternoon.

Former leader Mr Williams narrowly lost his Harpenden North East seat to the Liberal Democrats during the 2021 local elections held last week.

Following his departure, all 46 of the elected Conservative councillors at the county council met to select a new group leader.

Cllr Roberts, who had held the cabinet portfolio for adult care and mental health, was elected, and he will be deputised by Potters Bar West & Shenley county councillor Morris Bright, who is also the leader of Hertsmere Borough Council.

Cllr Bright will replace current deputy leader Cllr Teresa Heritage, who is serving as interim leader of the county council until May 25, when Cllr Roberts will be formally ratified as leader at an annual general meeting.

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

Commenting on his selection, Cllr Roberts 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."