In a significant shift for Lincolnshire County Council, Martin Hill has declared his intention to resign from his role as the leader of the Conservative group, ending a remarkable 20-year term. Hill’s announcement comes on the back of an unexpected local election result in which Reform UK seized 44 out of 70 seats, leaving the Conservatives significantly trailing with just 14. Despite the competing political landscape, Hill emphasised his decision to resign was independent of the recent election and had been in planning.
Hill, who will maintain his role as a representative for Folkingham Rural, voiced that it was time for a new face to take over, admitting his time as the council’s leader has been lengthy and he feels it’s time to inject new energy. He said: ‘I’ve been 20 years as leader of the council – that’s long enough I think, and I’m the wrong side of 70.’
The local council has predominantly been held by the Conservatives for half a century, beginning the election night with a significant 53 seats. Hill expressed disappointment at the election results, attributing the change to voters placing more emphasis on national issues such as immigration rather than responsibilities at the local council level.
Despite the setback for his party, Hill remains steadfast in opposing plans for new pylons and excessive solar farms across the county, aligning his views with some Reform UK positions. Hill reassured that he will be on hand to aid the new Conservative group leader as required, aiming for a seamless transition of power.
This article was adapted by The Lincoln Post from original news coverage by The BBC.
