Westminster must build on Sir Simon's era of achievement

It is a time of change at Westminster City Council. Following Boris Johnson's election as Mayor of London, Sir Simon Milton has stepped down, after eight years as leader of the council to become his senior planning advisor.

Westminster's loss is London's gain. Simon has been widely recognised as one of the outstanding civic leaders of his generation. Westminster Council now has one of the best performance assessments in the country and, more importantly, some of the highest resident satisfaction scores in local government, all achieved while maintaining low council tax.

Simon's five year One City programme has made, and will make, a real difference to local people. Innovative and visionary, One City has improved not only the appearance of the city but has had a real impact on improving neighbourhoods, education and opportunities for the people of Westminster.

We know that there is still more to do - some of our young people are not achieving their full potential and this has wider consequences for crime and anti-social behaviour. We are moving these issues to the top of our agenda, with our innovative Families at Risk programme.

The government has recognised our efforts and we have been awarded nearly £800,000 to lead the way in implementing this ground-breaking approach, targeting and supporting those families most in need.

Simon leaves Westminster in great shape and I am sure he will do a great job for Boris to the benefit of us all.

We are committed to building on Simon's achievements - continuing to listen to residents and businesses to provide responsive local services which offer real value for money to the taxpayer. This has always been Westminster's approach and the change in leadership will not alter that.

Cllr Colin Barrow

Deputy Leader - Westminster City Council