The role of Harrow Council chief executive is to be axed following months of political instability – a decision that makes ‘no economic or practical sense’ according to a union.

The council’s Conservative administration announced today that the £187,097 a year position, which has been held by Michael Lockwood for six years, will be cut as a cost-saving measure.

Councillor Susan Hall, Conservative leader of Harrow Council, said: “With the council planning to make substantial savings over the coming years, it was only right that we looked at savings in management in order to protect front line services. I believe a leaner management structure is now right to take us forward as we enter a period of further intense financial pressure.

“Michael’s statutory duties will pass to Paul Najsarek, corporate director for community health and wellbeing, and I am confident this arrangement will give Harrow Council the stability and management it needs.”

Conservatives project the move could save tax payers’ £1million over the next four years.

However the union UNISON has criticised the decision as well as its timing during a period of political instability for the council. In a statement it said: “UNISON had hoped that with the election of Susan Hall and with the local elections just around the corner next May, that Harrow residents and council staff would see a period of stability and acts of unity to steady the ship.

"Sadly, this short-sighted proposal has only accentuated the ill-feeling at the top and has effectively rocked the boat even more. This simply makes no economic or practical sense."

The chief officers’ employment panel at the council has approved a severance package consisting of a compensation payment of £30,000 and local government pension scheme lump sum payment entitlement of £138,651. Mr Lockwood will also receive an annual pension of £65,179.

The scrapping of the role has been widely criticised by both Independent Labour and Labour factions.

David Perry, leader of the Labour Group, said: “The leader of the council has used her power to push this policy through in a dictatorial style.”

Labour claimed Mr Lockwood had faced ‘disgraceful treatment’ during the consultation period, in which he operated on leave.

Mr Lockwood’s last day of service with the authority will on February 28 next year.

He said in a statement: “I have decided after much thought that in the best interests of the council and for me personally, that I will leave the authority. I have been grateful for the advice and support of councillors across all parties and for the superb partners we have in Harrow, which make it such a great place.”

poll loading

Was it right to scrap the role of chief executive at the council?