The leader of the council is stepping down after six years’ duty.

Councillor Julian Daly will be resigning from his role as Leader of St Albans City and District to concentrate on his work.

The accountant works as a director of a business managing commercial property for pension funds, charities, and investment trusts worth £0.7 billion.

He said: “It’s a great honour to be Council Leader and I’m very proud of what we achieved over the 6 years.

“I have had the privilege to work with a creative, committed and capable team.

“In particular I’m pleased that public satisfaction with the way that St Albans City and District Council runs things improved from 42 per cent to 71 per cent in that period. I want to thank everyone who helped to make that possible.”

Cllr Daly will continue in his role as District Councillor and a new leader will be elected at the full council meeting on Wednesday, May 24.