West Dorset District Council has elected Cllr Anthony Alford as its new leader.
Cllr Alford was voted in at Full Council on Thursday following Cllr Robert Gould stepping down after becoming leader of Dorset County Council.
Cllr Alford said: “I’m pleased to have been elected as district council leader. Local government is going through some big changes and will continue to face huge financial challenges in the future. I’m confident we can continue to successfully face these challenges head on.
“I would also like to thank Robert Gould for his years of service to the role and wish him the best as leader of county council.”
Cllr Alford has represented the Netherbury Ward for the district council since May 2003 and has been vice chairman of the Executive Committee since 2007.
Outgoing leader Cllr Gould said he was looking forward to fresh challenges, but looked back fondly on his time as district council leader.
His tenure saw the council deliver a number of flagship projects including the new Dorchester Sports Centre, Lyme Regis coastal defence works, move to more efficient offices and partnership working with Weymouth & Portland and North Dorset councils.
He said: “I am very sorry to be stepping down as district council leader. It has been an immense privilege to lead the district council since 2004.
“We have achieved so much but the main focus has been to ensure sound financial management and to keep our share of the council tax low.
“I am delighted that Tony Alford is the new leader as he has all the necessary experience and ability to take the council forward in challenging times.”
