New top officer for Preston City Council

Adrian Phillips, the current Director of Environment, has been revealed as the top choice to replace outgoing boss Lorraine Norris.

Mr Phillips is expected to be appointed as the interim chief executive on a 12 month contract.

The council's cross-party chief officer employment committee has been meeting over the last few months since Ms Norris indicated her decision to retire in 2018.

A report set to go before the full council on Thursday, April 19, asks for councillors to give their approval of Mr Phillips' appointment.

Ms Norris, who has been at the helm of the local authority since 2009, will step down later this year.

It means a double change in town hall leadership with Coun Peter Rankin having also announced his intention to step down as leader.

She previously told the Lancashire Post: “After nine years as chief executive officer, I am beginning to make plans to retire later this year.

“Until then it is business as usual as I continue to work with colleagues, partners and our elected members to deliver the council’s services and priorities.”