Haringey’s new Liberal Democrat leader has promised a “radical vision” for the borough that “gives power back to communities”.

Cllr Luke Cawley-Harrison was elected as the new leader of the Lib Dems at the group’s annual general meeting on Wednesday (July 1).

The Crouch End ward councillor takes over from Cllr Liz Morris (Highgate), who stepped down from the role of opposition leader in June.

Cllr Cawley-Harrison said: “I am humbled that my colleagues on the council have chosen me as their leader. It is a great honour to follow-up from Cllr Liz Morris’ excellent leadership – she has renewed the Liberal Democrat Group as a force in Haringey politics and will continue to be a tremendous councillor for Highgate ward.

“As we look forward, the same old approaches will not be enough to enable our area to recover and rebuild after the trauma of Covid-19. We need a positive, progressive and radical vision for Haringey that puts faith in our residents and businesses and gives power back to our communities to make decisions for themselves. The Lib Dems will be at the forefront of providing that vision”.

Cllr Cawley-Harrison, who was elected as a councillor in 2018, is chief whip and transport and liveable neighbourhoods spokesperson for the Liberal Democrat Group.

He has lobbied for better walking and cycling infrastructure in the borough and proposed a motion on LGBT+ inclusive education that was unanimously adopted by the council.

Cllr Josh Dixon (Alexandra) will remain as the Lib Dems’ deputy leader.