Shropshire Council Leader Lezley Picton Resigns Amidst Funding Crisis and Political Turmoil

Lezley Picton, the leader of Shropshire Council, has announced she will not seek re-election after leading the council since 2021. Citing frustration with the Labour government’s plans for local authority reorganization, Picton expressed concerns over potential centralization that could strip councils of local control. She highlighted ongoing underfunding by successive governments that has pressured councils financially, nearly leading to bankruptcy in Shropshire.

Under her leadership, the council faced significant challenges, including a funding crisis that necessitated saving nearly £50 million in just a year—20% of its net budget. Picton’s administration implemented unpopular measures, such as fees for garden waste collections, in efforts to regain financial stability. She believes that regardless of who takes over, the financial difficulties will persist unless local councils receive better funding.

After four decades in local government, Picton reflects on her tenure and aims to leave a legacy of resilience during dire financial times. She plans to retire and spend time with family, as the local elections approach on May 1.