Arun Council elects new chairman and leadership team

Councillor Freddie Tandy elected chair of Arun District Council for 2025/26 <i>(Image: Arun District Council)</i>
Councillor Freddie Tandy elected chair of Arun District Council for 2025/26 (Image: Arun District Council)
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Arun District Council has elected a new chairman.

Councillor Freddie Tandy, who represents the Courtwick with Toddington ward in Littlehampton, will be the new chairman for the 2025/26 civic year.

He takes over from Councillor James Walsh, who served as chairman last year.

Cllr Tandy was elected to the council in May 2023.

He has served as vice-chairman of the council, vice-chairman of the corporate support committee, and is a member of the planning policy committee.

He also represents the council on the North Littlehampton advisory group and South East employers.

"I am deeply honoured to be elected chairman of Arun District Council," said Cllr Tandy.

"I look forward to working with councillors across all parties to ensure our meetings are constructive and inclusive.

"I will also be embracing the work of engaging with our communities and championing the voices of people across the district."

Cllr Tandy will be supporting MenWalkTalk, a locally founded charity that aims to reduce male suicides by providing a community of support for men.

Councillor Jill Long was elected as the new vice-chairwoman and will support Cllr Tandy in the coming year.

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Cllr Walsh reflected on his term and said: "It has been a great honour to serve as chairman of Arun District Council.

"I have greatly valued the opportunity to chair meetings with fairness and an open mind, and to represent the council across our vibrant community.

"I have met some wonderful people and been privileged to attend and support many events.

"I am grateful to have had this opportunity and wish Councillor Tandy every success in the year ahead."

Cllr Walsh raised £1,005 for Mind Sussex and Littlehampton Sea Scouts during his term.

At the meeting, the election of group leaders of the council also took place.

Councillor Martin Lury was confirmed as the leader of the Liberal Democrat group, with Councillor Matt Stanley as the deputy leader.

Councillor Shaun Gunner was appointed as the leader of the opposition and Conservative group, with Councillor Keir Greenway as the deputy leader.

Councillor Mike Northeast was elected as the leader of the Labour group, with Councillor Roger Nash as the deputy leader.

Councillor Sue Wallsgrove was appointed as the leader of the Green group, with Councillor Mel Penycate as the deputy leader.

Councillor David Huntley was elected as the leader of the Independent group, with Councillor Shirley Haywood as the deputy leader.

Councillor Steve Goodheart was appointed as the leader of the Arun Independent group, with Councillor Thomas Harty as the deputy leader.

Councillor Trevor Bence was elected as the leader of Reform UK, with Councillor Giuliano Pinnelli as the deputy leader.

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