On Monday (18 May 2025), New Forest District Council (NFDC) held their Annual Council meeting and elected the new Chairman for the coming year as Cllr Dave Penny.
Cllr Penny represents the Totton North Ward on the district council and has been a member of NFDC since May 2023.
In addition to chairing meetings of the Council held at Appletree Court, the position of Chairman is an important ceremonial one, representing the district at a wide range of civic engagements and local events.
The outgoing Chairman, Cllr John Sleep, was thanked for his year in office by the Cllr Jill Clear, Leader of the Council: “The thanks of this Council have been extended to Cllr John Sleep for the admirable way in which he has carried out the duties of Chairman during the past municipal year.”
After signing the declaration of acceptance in the Chamber, Cllr Penny thanked Cllr Sleep and said: “I am honoured to be given the opportunity to stand for you all in this year ahead. I am very much looking forward to representing our council and the communities we serve at a local level and beyond. With the support of my wife and Consort, Jan, we will take great pride in undertaking this honour and we are very much looking forward to our year in office.”
Cllr Penny has chosen SCARF (Supporting Children with Additional Needs, Relatives and Friends) and The Pillar at St Wins Church as his charities for his year in office.
The Vice-Chairman for 2026/2027 is Cllr Barry Rickman.
