Lichfield District Council will meet for the first time since the local elections this evening – but the departure of a councillor who once led the authority will mark the “end of an era” according to his replacement.
Conservative David Smith has stepped down as a district councillor to focus on his role as a county councillor.
Current leader Cllr Mike Wilcox paid tribute to his predecessor – who he replaced in 2010 – insisting the council chamber would be a very different place without him.
He said: “It certainly is the end of an era.
“David was the leader for 11 or so years and was chairman. He’s been involved for donkey’s years.
“But he’s decided he wants to concentrate on his role with Staffordshire County Council and we have to acknowledge and accept that.
“It will be a much different palce without him.”
Cllr Wilcox has also urged the authority to ensure Cllr Smith’s legacy is recognised by ensuring a key development in the city goes ahead.
“He’s left his mark at Lichfield District Council,” said Cllr Wilcox. “Many things are in place now that he championed and introduced when he was in charge.
“David was the man who dreamed up the original Friarsgate scheme some 15 yrs ago. Obviously, the project has changed somewhat because of the recession, but we have a lot to thank him for.
“Part of the legacy we need to give his service is making sure we deliver on things that David believed in when he was in charge.”