Cllr Michael Cheyne has announced his intention to step down from the Executive, with Cllr David East set to take up the executive portfolio for highways and transport at Lincolnshire County Council.
Cllr Cheyne intends to step back from his executive role at the full council meeting on 20 February. He explained: “It’s been an honour and a pleasure to lead the highways and transport portfolio since May.
“I had a major operation late last year which has led me to refocus my political priorities on health grounds.
“Following discussions with our leader Cllr Sean Matthews, I have taken the decision to give up my portfolio so that I can prioritise representing my community in Boston West.
“There’s so much we want to achieve for the people of Lincolnshire with regard to highways and transport. For that to happen we need someone with the energy to drive this forward.
“I’d like to thank all of the officers who have supported me over the last nine months, and to Cllr Matthews for the opportunity to head up this important portfolio.”
Cllr David East, of Heckington division, will take up the role of executive member for highways and transport.
Cllr Cheyne continued: “It’s vital for me to have a full and proper handover with Cllr East, so that he can hit the ground running. That process has already started and will continue throughout February.”
Cllr Sean Matthews, leader of Lincolnshire County Council, said:
“It’s a real shame to lose Michael’s input and influence over our highways and transport services, but I completely understand and respect his decision to step back. I’d like to thank him for all his work since May; his level-headed and sensible approach will be missed in the Executive. He has been instrumental in bringing in a full and proper trial of the Pothole Pro, and has set a new precedent for involving and engaging with local communities.
“The good news is that we will still have Michael’s insight in the chamber, and that the residents of Boston will still have this staunch supporter in their corner.”