In a unique cabinet reshuffle at Gloucestershire County Council, Joe Harris, who has been the driving force behind fixing the county’s potholes, is stepping down from his role next month. Taking over the responsibility will be none other than his father, Councillor Mark Harris.
Joe Harris (Lib Dem, Cirencester Park), the current cabinet member for highways, is leaving to pursue a new position on a national infrastructure project. His father, Cllr Mark Harris (Lib Dem, Cirencester North with Ermin), is poised to assume the highways portfolio, as announced by Council Leader Lisa Spivey (Lib Dem, South Cerney).
Alongside this change, former Cheltenham MP Martin Horwood will step down from the cabinet to become Cheltenham’s mayor in May. Gloucester’s current mayor, Ashley Bowkett (Lib Dem, Barnwood and Hucclecote), will take over as cabinet member for nature, climate, and waste reduction.
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The new cabinet posts come with an annual allowance of £34,045.55, including a special responsibility allowance of £21,482.72 and a basic councillor allowance of £12,562.83.
Reflecting on his tenure, Councillor Joe Harris stated, “I’m proud to have overseen an additional £15 million a year for highways — the biggest investment in Gloucestershire’s roads in many years. While there’s still much to be done to improve our roads, this funding marks a strong beginning. I am confident Mark will bring determination and continue the work to improve our infrastructure.”
Martin Horwood expressed gratitude for his time as cabinet member for nature, climate, and waste reduction, highlighting achievements such as advancing the local nature recovery strategy and reducing the council’s carbon footprint. He affirmed his confidence in Ashley Bowkett to carry forward the vital environmental initiatives.
Council Leader Lisa Spivey praised Joe Harris and Martin Horwood for their dedication amid challenging financial circumstances and looks forward to collaborating with Ashley Bowkett and Mark Harris in their new roles. “Together, we will continue focusing on mending our roads, creating jobs, and protecting Gloucestershire’s natural environment.”
These cabinet changes will be formally enacted at Gloucestershire County Council’s full meeting on Wednesday, May 13.