Councillor Daniel Thomas today revealed he is stepping down from the council after moving away from the area.
He said the move was to raise their young sons in the countryside and live closer to their families in South Wales.
Cllr Thomas said: “In 2024, I moved away from Barnet so that my wife and I can raise our young sons in the countryside and live closer to our families in South Wales. I was asked to avoid an expensive and disruptive by-election and so I continued to attend council meetings and assist residents.
“With a desire to start 2026 afresh, I am today stepping down from Barnet Council. As the next council elections are less than six months away, a by-election will be avoided.
“I would like to thank everyone I’ve worked with over the last 19 years as a councillor, and for the support I received whilst leader of the council.”
He added: “It has been an honour to serve Finchley.
“I am particularly proud of the personal contribution I made to cutting council tax and keeping it low for over a decade, whilst resident satisfaction with council services improved.
“I also look back with pride on the role I played in the successful regeneration of council estates, delivery of new housing and community facilities and a well-managed council budget.
“I wish the people of Barnet and Barnet Council all the very best for 2026 and beyond.”
