Gareth becomes youngest ever leader of Rushmoor Council with pledge to ‘get the town centres done’

Cllr Gareth Lyon has taken the helm as Leader of Rushmoor Borough Council with ambitious plans for the future.

The West Heath councillor is the youngest ever to hold the role at the age of 39.

Cllr Lyon’s tenure so far has seen him introduce the Rushmoor Community Lottery and steer the Rushmoor Local Plan, as well as voice his support for the Lynchford Road traders.

His new priorities for the borough include finishing off the ongoing regeneration works in Aldershot and Farnborough town centres, caring for neighbourhoods and green spaces, strengthening communities, and promoting partnerships and volunteering.

He steps into the shoes of Cllr David Clifford, who has led the council for the past seven years before his recent departure due to personal commitments.

Cllr Lyon said: “I’m incredibly honoured to be selected as the new Leader of Rushmoor Borough Councillor and thank all those who have put their faith in me.

“My top priority will be to build on the remarkable legacy of regeneration left by Councillor Clifford and to get the town centres done.

“I’m really looking forward to the challenges that lie ahead, finding solutions and making Rushmoor a place people choose to live.”

The new Leader added that his work will be underpinned by a customer- and digital-first strategy and sound financial management.

He’ll be joined in the cabinet by Cllr Ade Adeola, responsible for digital first and corporate services, as well as Cllr Calum Stewart, who’ll lead the council’s refugee resettlement work.

• rushmoor.gov.uk

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