Staffordshire tribute to neighbouring council leader

Philip Atkins

Staffordshire County Council leader Philip Atkins has paid tribute today to his colleague at City of Wolverhampton Council leader Roger Lawrence, who has announced he is stepping down from the position.

Cllr Lawrence has served as leader of the city council for 15 years and as a local councillor for three decades.
Philip Atkins said:

"Roger has done a tremendous job at the city council over the last 15 years and achieved a great deal in improving the lives of its residents.

As neighbours and colleagues we have worked closely together over the years, notably on economic growth and transport projects. We have both ensured our areas and the region have a significant voice on regional and national bodies and have lobbied Government hard where necessary.

One of our great achievements was the nationally acclaimed development of i54 South Staffordshire, along with South Staffordshire Council. The planning and construction of the site demonstrated huge commitment by both our councils – creating the first business site with its own direct motorway access.

This commitment and hard work has certainly paid off. We have a near fully occupied site containing global business leaders and we are now set to get to work on a major extension to the site.

Roger’s legacy to the City of Wolverhampton and the wider region as leader is immense and we know he will continue to serve local government and his area admirably. We wish him well for the future.”