'It is an honour to represent the people of the Highlands'
Register for free to read more of the latest local news. It's easy and will only take a moment.
Badenoch and Strathspey Highland councillor Bill Lobban returned to the convener seat this morning with unanimous support from the Highland Council chamber.
In accepting his role, Mr Lobban said it was an honour to represent the people of Highland.
He pledged to provide strong governance and support to all members, cross-party, and to do so without bias.
“With 34 new members, the winds of change are certainly blowing through this chamber, and hopefully they will feel more like a breath of fresh air,” said Councillor Lobban.
This morning marks the first meeting of the new council post-election, and a landmark moment since the pandemic. Members gathered in person – some wearing masks – while others joined remotely from their area offices.
Councillor Lobban alluded to the unrest of recent years, and the difficult job ahead.
“This has been the most difficult five years since the Second World War,” said Mr Lobban. “It is your collective responsibility to see the Highlands continue to thrive.
“I wish you well in your task. The future of Highland is in your hands.”
The convener went on to thank chief executive Donna Manson for her leadership both of the council and the election process. It’s thought that no other local authority in the UK provided the kind of live election stream co-ordinated by Highland Council, which attracted 20,000 views.
Councillor Lobban also thanked Highland Council’s employees, and his colleagues for his election as convener.
