New Hertfordshire County Council chairman proud to serve 'extraordinary' area
Hertfordshire County Council has appointed a new chairman to serve the area.
At its annual meeting yesterday the authority announced Sandy Walkington as the new chair for the region.
The county council confirmed that Councillor Walkington is the 41st chairman of the authority since 1889. Councillor Walkington has been a county councillor since 2013 and has been vice-chairman since May 2025.
Hertfordshire County Council also revealed that he has sat on most of the council’s cabinet panels and is a former vice-chair of overview and scrutiny. He also represents the county council on the Hertfordshire Buildings Preservation Trust, the council adds.
A spokesperson for the authority added: “Sandy has lived in Hertfordshire for 46 years. His wife Francesca runs her own architecture practice in the county and their three children attended Hertfordshire state schools. He has been president of the St Albans and Hertfordshire Architectural and Archaeological Society and also chair of the Abbey Line Community Rail Partnership, which is hosted by the county council.
“In his working life, Sandy was a public affairs specialist in a variety of private and public sector roles. These included director of corporate affairs for British Telecommunications and director of public affairs for Transport for London.”
Councillor Steve Watson, county councillor for Ware South, was elected as vice-chairman.
Speaking after his appointment, Councillor Walkington said: “Hertfordshire is a remarkable place and it is a real privilege to take on this role. I am passionate about active travel, volunteering and sustainability.
"Expect to see me on buses and walking, also spending time with all the wonderful volunteers who do so much to supplement the county’s professional staff, whether libraries or health walks or countryside management. Volunteers and officers alike give such remarkable service to our residents.
"Every day as a councillor is like doing a PhD in Hertfordshire studies. My role now is to fly the flag, and seek out, cherish and promote all that our extraordinary county has to offer.”
Councillor Walkington will be tasked with overseeing meetings and ensuring order is maintained at council debates. The authority’s chairman is also expected to represent the authority at a number of ceremonies and community events.