Letter: We Need Maximum Transparency Over Executive Resignations

Published on: 17 Dec, 2025
Updated on: 17 Dec, 2025

From Neil O’Brien

In response to: Two Senior GBC Executive Members Step Down But Remain As Councillors

It is worrying to read that, with the “impending demise” of Guildford Borough Council and so many unresolved issues around finances and regeneration, two of the most senior members of the Executive have stepped down from leadership roles yet will continue as councillors.

Public service is not a pick-and-mix commitment. When residents voted in May 2023, they did so on the understanding that those elected, and especially those who then put themselves forward for Executive responsibility, would see the job through, not step back from leadership at precisely the moment when decisions are most difficult.

If Cllr Hunt’s new job genuinely means he no longer has the time to fulfil his Executive responsibilities, it is hard to see how he has the time to remain an effective ward councillor either. Residents of St Nicolas deserve clarity on how their representation will not be diluted.

In the case of Cllr Lucas, we are told even less, simply that he has stepped down. Given his brief included Finance and Property, at a time when the council’s finances have been under such intense scrutiny, the lack of a clear explanation will only fuel concern.

There are also questions of accountability and fairness:
• How will responsibility be allocated for ongoing financial and regeneration decisions between now and the transition to the new unitary authority?
• Why was this change communicated only via a brief website note, rather than a full and open statement to residents and council taxpayers?

At a time when public trust in local government is already fragile, it is essential that leadership changes are handled with maximum transparency, not the bare minimum. Residents are entitled to expect that those who asked for their votes, and then accepted senior positions, do not simply step away from the hard graft of executive responsibility while keeping the title of councillor.

I hope the council will now explain, clearly and publicly, why these decisions have been taken, what it means for oversight of our finances and regeneration projects, and how stability of leadership will be maintained in the crucial months ahead.