COUNCILLOR Alan Lion was elected as the new Chairman of Epping Forest District Council at it’s annual council meeting on 28 May 2026, the first to be held since the May 7th local elections.

Outgoing Chairman, Councillor Louise Mead welcomed 13 new councillors to the chamber, their first council meeting since being elected, before handing over the chains to the new chairman, Councillor Alan Lion.

Councillor Alan Lion was elected as Chairman of Epping Forest District Council for 2026 to 2027.

“My thanks to all the members of this council who supported my nomination and for all of you, in putting your trust in me at this monumental time of change.

“I also want to thank the people of Grange Hill Ward in Chigwell, who have voted for me as their councillor at parish and district over the past 20 or so years. I have looked to always support and serve them.

“It is a great honour and privilege to be considered. I gratefully accept this vital and important role and the duties encompassed within it – to represent all members of this council equally, and to support those residents, businesses and educational establishments across the district.

“I would like to recognise the splendid work by the outgoing Chairman, Councillor Louise Mead and her consort Daisy-Mae. Her dedication and commitment is an example to us all. I have learned a lot from the experience of sitting beside and working with her. Always professional in all she does.”

Councillor Lion will be supporting St Clare Hospice during his year as chairman.

Councillor Louise Mead received a standing ovation after speaking about her year as chairman.

She noted the varied events she has had the pleasure to be a part of, including turning on the first Diwali lights on in Buckhurst Hill and a major milestone for the council – the opening of the new Epping Leisure Centre. She finished her time as chairman with one final event, a celebration for the 100th birthday of resident Marjorie Fitch, from Loughton.

“The people, the places, the laughter, the moments that will stay with me forever. Serving as chairman has been a great honour. What a wonderful community we have in the district. I’ve met some extraordinary people along the way. It’s our residents, our volunteers, staff, partners and friends who make this district so special – I’ve seen the proof day in, day out.

“I still can’t believe how much I’ve packed into one year. I’ve cut a few ribbons, planted a few trees, opened a charity shop, and represented Epping Forest at the High Sheriff’s garden party and the King’s voluntary awards.

“I still can’t quite believe my name sits on a plaque next to an Olympic gold-medallist, James Guy MBE at the Epping Leisure Centre – I’m very proud of that.”

Councillor Janet Whitehouse was elected the new vice-chairman of council for 2026 to 2027.

She said: “What a surprise it was to be asked to stand as vice-chairman. A very big thank you to those who voted for me.

“I look forward to learning more about the role of vice-chairman and serving the whole of the district.”