Colyton councillor Paul Arnott has held on to the leadership of East Devon District Council following the local elections earlier this month.

The Democratic Alliance, made up of Liberal Democrats, Green Party members and some independents, continue as the majority group on the council with 29 seats, with Cllr Arnott re-elected as their leader.

The Conservatives now have 17 seats, the Independent Group have nine seats, Labour has three, and there are two seats from the Independent Council Group. East Devon District Council council has 60 councillors in total.

Returning leader Cllr Arnott, who has held the position of leader for the past three years, switched from representing the East Devon Alliance to the Liberal Democrats at this month's election.

On being re-elected leader this week, he told the meeting that the focus for the new administration will continue to be on the existing priorities of homes, the environment and East Devon's economy, with an emphasis on sustainability.

Cllr Arnott said: "It is a privilege to be elected by my fellow councillors to lead East Devon again.

"Of course, there are challenges in all our priority areas, not least diminishing financial support from central government. However, I feel confident that our replenished, progressive-minded body of councillors, working with our enthusiastic and talented officers, will do the district proud."

Cllr Paul Hayward, who was elected as an independent in Axminster having previously represented the Yarty ward, will continue in his role as deputy leader having served beneath Cllr Arnott for the last three years.

Following the election of leader and deputy, Cllr Arnott announced the new Cabinet posts, as follows:

• Coast, Country & Environment – Councillor Geoff Jung
• Council and Corporate Coordination – Councillor John Loudoun
• Climate Action & Emergencies – Councillor Marianne Rixson
• Communications & Democracy – Councillor Sarah Jackson
• Culture, Leisure, Sport & Tourism – Councillor Nick Hookway
• Economy – Councillor Matt Hall
• Finance and Assets – Councillor Paul Hayward
• Strategic Planning – Councillor Olly Davey
• Sustainable Homes & Communities – Councillor Dan Ledger

At the annual council meeting, Cllr Eleanor Rylance was elected as chair of the council, and Cllr Sam Hawkins as vice-chair. 

Cllr Arnott added: "With Eleanor in the chair and Sam as her vice-chair we have a fresh and able pairing who I have no doubt will ensure that the council's reputation is enhanced and that all its actions meet the highest standards in public life."