Stepping down not easy, says council leader

The leader of Cornwall Council has said stepping down from her position before the upcoming local elections "wasn't an easy one".

Linda Taylor began her role as leader in 2021 when the Conservatives won a majority and said stepping down now gave her a chance to "see what else is outside or within Cornwall".

She said: "I just felt this was the right time for me to step down. I won't retire, it's not within me. I always want to get involved."

Taylor, who represents St Ives, Lelant, and Carbis Bay, told the BBC she had the support of her group and was "determined" to take her administration through to the elections in late April.

"At which time, it will be very clear who the contenders are going to be for the leaders of the Conservative Group," she said.

The council leader added: "I've said I'm here to go out and meet as many people as possible, help deliver those leaflets and we've got a job to do and I intend to see it through."

Taylor told BBC Radio Cornwall that "listening to the people" was the thing she was proudest of during her four years in charge.

"It's about making sure people are treated fairly," she said.

She added the delivery of £147m through shared prosperity was also something she was pleased to deliver.

When asked about any regrets, she said: "Not being able to deliver more affordable housing."

But reassuring listeners, she said councillor Olly Monk, portfolio holder for planning and housing, "has got some really good plans".

Taylor said: "Whatever happens in May his hard work and support from the cabinet will see a good succession of affordable housing."

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