A long-serving city councillor is stepping down having worked on landmark projects including the Hive and Cathedral Square.
Simon Geraghty has made the decision not to stand at the upcoming elections, 24 years after first being elected onto Worcester City Council.
But the Conservative councillor is staying on in his role as leader of Worcestershire County Council.
Cllr Geraghty joined the city council in 2000 and six years later became the youngest council leader in the country aged 29.
He also became the youngest county council leader in the country in 2016, and says now is the right time to focus on county matters.
“I’ve really enjoyed representing St Clements – the area in which I grew up and continue to live – on the city council over that time and helping hundreds of residents over that period get things resolved,” he said.
“Over those 24 years, the 10 years leading the City Conservative Group and nearly nine years as the leader of the city council were the most enjoyable as it was a period when we were driving a lot of positive regeneration and renewal in the city, which has always been a passion of mine.
“Projects like the Hive, the close working with the university on regenerating many derelict sites and the improving the riverside were all getting done.
“I look forward to continuing to work closely with the city council as county leader to help positively shape the future of the area and our great city.”
Speaking at a recent city council meeting, Cllr James Stanley said: “Simon Geraghty has over the course of 24 years represented St Clement ward with distinction and risen to the pinnacle of local government here in Worcester but also in the county beyond.
“The city today would not be the inspiring place it is without him at the helm.”
Cllr Adrian Gregson said: “Simon Eon Geraghty always brought a spark of energy to the council.
“Simon has survived and flourished in the city and he’s always demonstrated his commitment to the city.”
Cllr Gregson joked that he’ll miss following Cllr Geraghty in named votes in the Guildhall.
“At least if I don’t know what I’m doing, if he’s gone one way, I know to go the other,” he said.
Cllr Marjory Bisset paid tribute to Cllr Geraghty’s “amazing record of dedication and service” to Worcester.
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