Hillingdon Council has formally appointed Councillor Steve Tuckwell as its new Leader for a four-year term. The appointment, confirmed during the Annual General Meeting (AGM) on Thursday, follows Ian Edwards’ decision to step down as Leader of the Hillingdon Conservative Group after five years in the role.
Councillor Tuckwell, who will also personally oversee the portfolio for Growth, Communications, and Governance, confirmed Councillor Richard Mills as his Deputy Leader. The new leadership team takes office immediately to manage the borough’s primary services and strategic direction.
New Cabinet appointments and portfolios
The leadership transition includes a restructured Cabinet responsible for key public services. These councillors will manage the borough’s multi-million pound budgets and policy implementation for the upcoming municipal year.
| Cabinet Member | Portfolio Responsibility |
|---|---|
| Cllr Richard Mills | Deputy Leader; Corporate Services, Digital and Transformation |
| Cllr Eddie Lavery | Finance |
| Cllr Susan O’Brien | Children, Families, Health and Care |
| Cllr Adam Bennett | Community, Environment and Enforcement |
| Cllr Wayne Bridges | Residents’ Services |
| Cllr Nick Denys | Planning, Housing and Property |
Councillor Tuckwell thanked his predecessor for his service, stating his intention to work across the council in the best interests of residents throughout the borough.
Reeta Chamdal elected as Hillingdon’s first citizen
During the same session, Councillor Reeta Chamdal was officially elected as the new Mayor of Hillingdon. Replacing outgoing Mayor Philip Corthorne, Councillor Chamdal becomes the borough’s ceremonial representative and first citizen.
She will be supported in her official duties by her husband and Mayor’s Consort, Roy Chamdal. Councillor Colleen Sullivan has been appointed as Deputy Mayor to assist with the civic calendar.
Retiring Mayor Philip Corthorne will remain active in local governance, continuing his work as a ward councillor. Residents or local community groups wishing to invite the new Mayor to attend local events can submit requests to the council’s civic office via the official mayoral email address.
Source: Hillingdon Council
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