Council leader resigns over bankruptcy risk report

Leader of Cheshire East Council Sam Corcoran said he had to take responsibility for recent "setbacks"

A council leader has resigned just before he was due to face a vote of no confidence over the local authority's finances.

Leader of Cheshire East Council Sam Corcoran said he had to "take responsibility" after a report highlighted bankruptcy fears.

He announced he would be standing down at a full council meeting.

The Labour councillor said he felt the "pain" of recent "setbacks", and described an inadequate Ofsted report into the council’s children’s services as a "particular blow".

'Working together'

The Labour councillor will be replaced by Councillor Nick Mannion, following a 48 councillor vote.

His resignation comes just a week after a Local Government Association publication which warned Cheshire East was at risk of "effective bankruptcy" if it did not take quick action.

Speaking to councillors at the meeting at Jodrell Bank, he said his achievements included the council being a leading light in tackling climate change.

He also spoke about the abuse he had received as a politician.

“I think it is up to us to improve the reputation of politics by working together and moving on from the problems of the past,” he said.

“Many will find that difficult while I am leader of the council.

“I hope that everyone will work with the next leader of the council to improve the reputation of politicians and to address the challenges facing us all".

Mr Corcoran has been leader of Cheshire East since the Conservatives lost overall control of the council at the May 2019 local elections.

The Conservatives are still the largest party on the council but it is ruled by a joint Labour and Independent administration.