New Chairman for The Guildford Society

Published on: 31 May, 2013
Updated on: 5 Jun, 2013

Bill Stokoe the new chairman of the Guildford Society

The Guildford Society has a new chairman.

After four very productive years as Chairman, architect Michael Jeffery has handed over the chair to another committed Guildfordian, Bill Stokoe.

A statement from the society read: “Some will know Bill through his work at the Abbot’s Hospital, and a spell as Burpham Community Association chairman. He will also shortly join the board of Guildford College. He is a member of the Guildford Vision Group steering group which, although initiated by the Guildford Society, continues its separate existence in campaigning for a masterplan for the town.

“Bill, a former banker and consultant, is joined on the Guildford Society committee by several similarly committed individuals, all Guildfordians, who bring to the Society their professional experience in journalism, property, finance, the arts and heritage – skills needed to serve the town.”

One of Mr Stokoe’s first duties was to introduce speaker Councillor Stephen Mansbridge, leader of Guildford Borough Council, to a meeting on Thursday evening (May 30) at which he shared his vision for Guildford’s future.

Michael Jeffery, the outgoing chairman

The statement continued: “This is a very exciting time for Guildford, with a recognised demand for new infrastructure to provide relief for traffic congestion across the Borough and to serve new and existing development in and around the town centre, including much needed new housing.

“Guildford needs a strong council and good counsel through a strong and representative Guildford Society. This week’s changes ensure that this strength continues with renewed vigour.

Mr Stokoe said: “I pay tribute to Michael’s work. I take over at a very interesting time. Consultation will soon begin on the new Local Plan and The Guildford Society plans to play its part in seeing that a cogent, well-evidenced plan emerges that addresses the needs of residents and ensures the long-run economic health of our town.”