Councillor David Perry is to step down as leader of Harrow Council on May 19, after two years at the helm.
Elected as a councillor in 2006, Cllr Perry has led the authority since winning the 2014 election.
Cllr Perry said: “ Harrow is my home and it has been the proudest two years of my life to lead this great borough and serve its residents.
“I am particularly proud that, under my leadership, with an ambitious and a business-like approach, we have laid the foundations for this council to build a better Harrow.
“When I became leader, this council faced the biggest challenge in a generation. Government cuts put every one of our services at risk of closure.
“It is now the right time for a new leader to take up the baton and build on the foundations I have laid. We will continue to work together, united – so while the face at the top will change, this council’s priorities and ambitions will remain the same.
“After five years of front-bench politics, in various roles, it is also the right time for me personally to begin a new chapter in my life, having been recently married and with aspirations to start a family in the future.
“Growing up in Harrow, I always wanted to make a difference for the places and people of this borough. I will always be passionate about giving back to my community and I will continue to serve the residents of Marlborough Ward.”
'Strong vision and leadership'
Michael Lockwood, chief executive of Harrow Council, commended David Perry for his service as council leader.
Mr Lockwood said: “It has been a pleasure and privilege to work with David. He has provided the council with strong vision and leadership in very difficult times.
“The council has now built a reputation for efficiency and innovation and a much improved national standing.
"David’s honest and hard-working approach has earned the respect of staff and the organisations and partners we work with, and I would like to thank him for his great contribution to the council as leader.
“I am confident that the next leader of this council will share David’s ambition and I look forward to continuing our work with them.”
