The Independent Group on Cheshire East Council has today elected Wilmslow councillor Michael Gorman as its new leader.

His appointment follows the resignation of Cllr Craig Browne (Alderley Edge) who will be stepping down later this month to take up a new post as chief executive at Citizens Advice North Staffordshire.

Cllr Gorman, who was elected to Cheshire East Council in May of last year, represents Wilmslow West & Chorley.

He is now the Independent Group's nominee for the position of deputy leader of Cheshire East Council.

Cheshire East Council HQ, Westfields, Sandbach.

Following his election as group leader, Cllr Gorman said: "I am delighted and honoured that the group has chosen me as leader.

"I am passionate about independent politics, but also keen to encourage cross-party collaboration wherever possible.

"These are very difficult times for the local government sector and it is essential that we protect local services as much as possible, whilst avoiding the threat of a Section 114 notice."

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Macclesfield councillor Mick Warren is the group's new deputy leader.

Macclesfield east representative Mick Warren - first elected in 2011 - is the new No. 2 of the Independent Group. (Image - Cheshire East Council)

Cllr Warren said: "I have been an elected member since May 2015 and have gained experience, first in opposition and latterly as chair of the environment and communities committee.

"Previously I served in HM forces and as a police officer and look forward to using my experience to support Cllr Gorman in his new role, as well as in helping to support the development of other members of the Independent group.

"I would like to take this opportunity to thank Cllr Craig Browne for his work in leading the group over the last five years, in particular in bringing stability to both the group and the council."

Cllr Browne, who will step down as group leader and deputy council leader at the next full council meeting on February 27, said: "I would like to offer my congratulations to Cllr Gorman and Cllr Warren and assure them of my support going forwards.

The outgoing Cllr Craig Browne announced his resignation from Independent Group leader and Cheshire East Council Deputy Leader in December 2023. (Image - Craig Browne by Cheshire East Council)

"Although I am stepping down to take up a new challenge, I will be continuing as ward councillor for Alderley Edge and as an active member of the Independent Group.

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"I am delighted that the group is in safe hands and I am sure it will continue to prosper over the course of the next few years."

There are 14 grouped Independent Councillors, Macclesfield Councillors which are part of this include Tytherington's David Edwardes and Macclesfield East's Mick Warren.

Macclesfield: For more information on the current Cheshire East Council composition, please click HERE.

CORRECTION: A previous edition of this story had incorrectly indicated the Independent Grouping were the second-largest, whereas they are in fact the third after the Conservatives and Labour.