New leader unveils his top team after council confirms his appointment

Cllr Mike Evemy was formally appointed as the new leader of Cotswold District Council, before announcing members of his cabinet on Wednesday evening. 

Cllr Evemy, who represents Siddington & Cerney Rural ward, served as deputy leader and cabinet member for finance since 2019. During this time, he led on the council’s financial strategy and oversaw key areas including property, benefits, and grant funding. 

At the annual council meeting (Wednesday May 21), Cllr Evemy set out his areas of focus and announced a new-look cabinet. 

It comes after Cllr Joe Harris stepped down as leader, and following recent elections to Gloucestershire County Council.   

Cllr Evemy appointed Juliet Layton to succeed him as deputy leader along, with six other cabinet members. This was as follows: 

• Cllr Juliet Layton, deputy leader and portfolio holder for Housing and Planning   

• Cllr Patrick Coleman, portfolio holder for Finance  

• Cllr Mike McKeown, portfolio holder for Climate Change and Digital  

• Cllr Tristan Wilkinson, portfolio holder for Economy and Council Transformation 

• Cllr Paul Hodgkinson, portfolio holder for Health, Culture and Visitor Experience 

• Cllr Claire Bloomer, portfolio holder for Communities 

• Cllr Andrea Pellegram, portfolio holder for Environment and Regulatory Services  

Cllr Mike Evemy, Leader of the Council, said: “I’m really proud to have been elected as leader of Cotswold District Council. 

“On top of the financial pressures that councils are grappling with, the challenge of local government reorganisation looms large. 

“This administration will remain fully focussed on the council’s existing priorities; to deliver high-quality services for residents, to build more affordable housing, to tackle the climate emergency and to foster prosperous, healthy communities, using digital technologies to help us transform and improve our work with and for the community. 

“But I am also determined to achieve the very best outcomes for residents in the Cotswold district, as Westminster imposes significant changes on the structure of local government. I look forward to working with leaders from across Gloucestershire, as well as the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government to shape a pragmatic approach that is in the best interests of people in the Cotswolds.” 

Cllr Mark Harris succeeds Cllr Nikki Ind as chair of the council, having served as vice-chair in 2024/25. 

This ceremonial role is responsible for the smooth running of council meetings and represents the council at events in the community.  

Cllr Harris – a resident in the Cotswolds for over 35 years - has served as a member on the district council since 2015, occupying positions on various committees and sub-committees. He is currently the ward member for Abbey, in Cirencester. 

Speaking about his appointment, Cllr Harris said: "It’s a real honour to be elected chair of Cotswold District Council.  

“The Cotswolds is a rare place. Some other places are beautiful but soulless. Others have heart but lack charm. We have both; stunning landscapes and vibrant, caring communities. 

“As chair, I’m proud to champion and protect that — in this chamber and out in our communities.” 

Cllr Ray Brassington was voted in as vice chair.