Election announced for The Rissingtons Ward following resignation of Councillor Andrew Maclean
Cotswold District Council has confirmed that an election to fill the vacancy in The Rissingtons Ward will take place on Thursday 22 January 2026, following the resignation of Councillor Andrew Maclean due to a serious health diagnosis.
In a moving statement to a full meeting of the Council last month, Cllr Maclean said he would be stepping down after being diagnosed with a brain tumour. Paying tribute to the ward he has served for the last six years, he said: “It’s been a joy to represent the Rissingtons….each of the four villages has its own special character but they have all been so welcoming and kind to me over the years.”
Councillors from across the political spectrum praised Cllr Maclean. Leader Mike Evemy said: “Cllr Maclean was the first Green councillor elected to this Council and that’s a huge achievement for him and his party.
“Speaking on behalf of all of my colleagues on this side of the chamber, we have always found Andrew very approachable and we have always enjoyed chatting with him and working collaboratively. We will all miss him – he has been a great member of this authority.”
Cllr Tom Stowe, leader of the Conservatives at the Council, added: “On behalf of the Conservative group, we have always very much valued his insights and his knowledge. He commands great respect amongst the group and is going to be sorely missed in this chamber.”
Cllr Clare Turner, green councillor, said: “Andrew brought good humour and tenacity to his councillor responsibilities, and I am very grateful for the friendship and support he has shown me as a fellow councillor. He moved the whole chamber when he shared his deeply personal news and spoke with such warmth about the communities he felt privileged to serve - an inspiration to us all.”
Cllr Nikki Ind, independent councillor, said: “Andrew is a valued colleague who has been dedicated to his local community and the Cotswold district. I have very much enjoyed working with him and will miss his support and advice.”
Key dates for the election process are:
- Notice of Election: Friday 12 December 2025
- Nomination papers: Submit by hand to Council Offices, Trinity Road, GL7 1PX between 10am and 4pm from 12 December until 22 December 2025
- Deadline for nominations: 4pm, Monday 22 December 2025
- Publication of candidates: No later than 4pm, Tuesday 23 December 2025
- Register to vote: By Tuesday 6 January 2026
- Postal vote applications: By 5pm, Wednesday 7 January 2026
- Proxy vote and voter authority certificate applications: By 5pm, Wednesday 14 January 2026
- Election day: Thursday 22 January 2026
The Notice of Election and nomination packs are available on the Council’s website. Poll cards will be posted towards the end of next week.
Contact Information
Cotswold District Council Communications Team
Notes to editors
Photographed: Cllr Andrew Maclean