Pidgeon Steps Down as Southwark's Deputy Leader

12.00.00am BST (GMT +0100) Thu 1st Apr 2004

Cllr Caroline Pidgeon, Deputy Leader of Southwark Council has announced that she will not be restanding as Deputy Leader in the Liberal Democrat Group elections next week.

"I have thoroughly enjoyed my two years as Deputy Leader and met and worked with some incredible people. I live and work locally and have a strong record working hard for local residents and getting results. I believe the people of Lambeth and Southwark need a local person to represent them on the London Assembly and am excited at the prospect of this challenge".

During her two years as Deputy Leader, Cllr Pidgeon has worked hard with real results:

• The establishment of Community Councils in Southwark, where powers - including capital budgets for environmental and safety improvements - have been devolved to local Councillors, working with their communities.

• Turning around the Aylesbury NDC to a successful project, recently awarded £11.3 million from the London Housing Board for works to the South West Corner.

• Significant investment in our sports and leisure facilities.

• Saving Northfield House from demolition and agreeing a new investment package for the block.

"Caroline has been a fantastic and professional Deputy Leader and has achieved a great deal in the areas on which she has led. She will make a very able and strong voice for our area at the London Assembly and I wish her every success in the forthcoming election" said Leader of the Council, Cllr Nick Stanton.