A FORMER leader of Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council has stood down from its Cabinet.

Councillor Andrew Finney, who represents Oakley and North Waltham, announced today that he can no longer dedicate the time needed for his position as Cabinet Member for Economic Strategy and Development.

Cllr Finney is the managing director of the Basing View-based firm HCR and has recently taken on the role of chairman of The Anvil Trust.

He said: “It has been a privilege to represent Basingstoke and Deane as a member of the Cabinet and the decision to step down has not been easy.

“The economic future of Basingstoke and Deane is of vital importance to us all and demands total commitment.

“Through my other interests I will continue to spread the word that Basingstoke and Deane is a great place to live, work and play.”

Having first joined the Cabinet in May 2006 as portfolio holder for Economic and Educational Development, Cllr Finney was Leader of the Council from May 2008 to February 2012.

He was instrumental in setting up the local enterprise partnership Enterprise M3 and was previously board member of the Regional Development Agency, Chair of South East Diamonds for Investment and Growth and board member of Thames Valley Innovation and Growth. Cllr Finney intends to remain involved with the board of Enterprise M3.

The move will leave eight members left on the council's Cabinet, and Cllr Clive Sanders, leader of the borough council, will take over the economic portfolio responsibilities.

Cllr Sanders said: “I would like to pay a personal tribute to Andrew for all his efforts during his time as leader and as a Cabinet member. It has been a privilege to work alongside him.

“He has been a tireless ambassador for Basingstoke and Deane and many of the achievements over the last seven years are due to his pride in the borough and his dedication and enthusiasm for making it an even better place.

“We have been very fortunate to have had someone with his many abilities as part of the team. I would like to take this opportunity to thank him for his outstanding contribution over the years and wish him all the best for the future.”