Published: Thursday, 25th September 2025
Councillor Steve Thornley is the new leader of Cannock Chase Council. He was voted into the role at a meeting of the council last night (Wednesday).
Councillor Thornley was elected to represent the Cannock Park and Old Fallow Ward in 2024 and has served as Chairman of the Council for 16 months.
He succeeds Councillor Tony Johnson who announced earlier this month that he was to stand down as leader for health reasons. He received a standing ovation from fellow members following a tribute to his work as leader.
Steve was born and bred in Cannock and returned to the area after retiring from a career in education and social services. He is married to wife, Sue, who is also a councillor. They have three children, nine grandchildren, and two great grandchildren.
He was nominated for the role by Councillor Julie Aston which was seconded by Councillor David Williams.
Councillor Williams will continue in the role of Deputy Leader as well as having responsibility for Community Wellbeing.
Councillor Thornley said: “It is a privilege to be asked to serve as leader of your home council. These are challenging times for Cannock Chase Council - and many other local authorities across the country - not least with local government reorganisation which will ultimately see the abolition of Cannock Chase Council.
“These challenges require strong leadership and that is something I will be providing for the residents, businesses and organisations of our community.”
He added that one of his top priorities was to push ahead with the regeneration of Cannock Town Centre.