Reform Cllr Robbie Roddiss elected as Chair of Durham County Council

Crook county councillor Robbie Roddiss was voted in by members at the local authority’s annual meeting today (Wednesday, May 21).

His new role will see him carry out duties on behalf of the council in the community, while representing County Durham in neighbouring authorities and beyond. The Chair is required to remain politically neutral. 

The decision to elect Cllr Roddiss came at the beginning of the first meeting in County Hall under Reform leadership. The newly elected member won a vote against Conservative councillor Richard Bell by 62 votes to 27. There were four abstentions. 

Speaking after his election, the new Chair said: “Life’s most persistent and urgent question is: ‘What are you doing for others?’

“This is a very great honour, and one of the best days of my life. I know it won’t be easy, and I know at times I will ask: ‘Why am I doing it?’ But like every other elected councillor in this room, I recognise that I want to do the very best for the people of County Durham.

“We don’t do it for the money, we don’t do it for some ego trip. Every candidate and elected councillor who puts their head above the parapet did so because they want to make a difference and improve the lives of people in this county. 

“I reluctantly accept this role and thank everyone who voted for me. I also understand why others didn’t vote for me, but that’s democracy. 

“Democracy is a very precious thing, but it is never easy to steer away from its demands. Everyone holds an opinion and a viewpoint, and has a right to be heard.

“I would ask for patience and remind everyone, both in this chamber and the county, that we will make mistakes; it’s inevitable. But if and when we do, it will be with the best intentions and not for some political or financial gain.”

Reform councillor Jackie Teasdale, of Delves Lane ward, was elected as Vice-Chair. 

Cross-party members paid tribute to outgoing Chair Joan Nicholson for her service. Elected in 2023, the former Annfield Plain councillor was praised for her dedication to the role. 

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Former Council Leader Amanda Hopgood said: “You held that office with dignity, honour, and you have been a shining example of what the role should be for anyone following in your footsteps. 

“You have shone County Durham to its highest level, whether it be with the King or children in a school. You have been amazing, and more importantly, you have done it without any bias within this chamber.”

Cllr Nicholson and former Vice-Chair Patricia Jopling were not re-elected at the Durham County Council election on May 1.