A council chief executive is today stepping down after more than a decade of service.

Dr Steven Halls is retiring from his position as chief executive of Three Rivers District Council after being in the post for more than 15 years, during which he has overseen many changes made to the council.

Council leader Cllr Sara Bedford said: “Steven is leaving after a successful Local Government Association peer review.

“During his time with us he has presided over many successful changes, including the establishment of the customer service centre and shared services, as well as guiding us through dealing with huge cuts in central government funding. I will miss Steven’s wide knowledge and decisive nature.

Dr Halls said: “It has been a great pleasure and privilege to serve the council and people of Three Rivers for over fifteen years.

“During my tenure, the council has become a high-achieving local authority with enviable performance indicators, a more secure financial position based on commercial activity, a highly professional, committed and flexible staff, and a culture that has embraced, or indeed led, innovation.”