POWYS County Council has announced that Gwernyfed councillor James Evans is stepping down from his role on the cabinet next week.

Councillor Evans, cabinet member for economic development, housing and regulatory services, has been a member of the cabinet since 2017 but said he is relinquishing his role on November 8 as he is due to start a new full-time job.

“Being a member of the cabinet demands the highest levels of dedication and it carries huge responsibilities, an opportunity that I have relished over the last three-and-a-half years and it is something I will not be able to do with a new full-time job,” said Cllr Evans, who despite stepping aside will continue to represent the Gwernyfed ward as a county councillor.

“Following a discussion with the leader and deputy leader I have decided that stepping down is the right thing to do for the cabinet, my new employer and the residents of Powys who I have had the honour of representing.

“Serving on the cabinet has been one of the biggest honours of my political career. I strongly believe that as a cabinet we have made a positive impact that will benefit the residents and businesses of our great county for years to come.

“I have valued my time on the cabinet and the many residents who I have been privileged to meet and I wish my colleagues well for the future. I will continue as the county councillor representing Gwernyfed.”

Leader of the council, Rosemarie Harris, thanked Councillor Evans for his hard work and contributions to the cabinet during a very demanding period in the council’s life.

“During his time on the cabinet James has demonstrated energy, integrity, loyalty and passion for the role and I wish him well in the future,” said Cllr Harris, who represents Llangynidr.

“I am grateful for his hard work and contributions to the cabinet over the past three-and-a-half years and the positive policies he has introduced to benefit the residents and businesses of Powys.

“James will continue in post until November 8 to ensure a smooth transition and managed handover of responsibilities and I will announce changes to the cabinet portfolios in due course.”