CROSS-party members of Newport City Council have paid tribute to outgoing leader Cllr Bob Bright.

Cllr Bright announced earlier this month he would leave the role he had held since May 2012 at the end of April and will retire from the council entirely next May.

Although he did not attend a Newport City Council meeting – which would have been his last as leader – on Tuesday, April 26, members paid tribute to his years of service on the council and as leader.

Deputy leader Cllr Ray Truman said the outgoing leader had a proud legacy, with achievements such as Friars Walk and the 2014 NATO summit.

“He’s had to make some really hard, tough decisions, which is not easy for anybody,” he said.

“But I assure you he’s left this authority in a good place.”

Conservative group leader Cllr Matthew Evans – himself a former council leader – also paid tribute to Cllr Bright, who was away as part of his role as the Welsh Local Government Association’s spokesman on Europe.

“Being a leader of a council can often be a thankless and often lonely job,” he said. “So can I wish Bob a more peaceful and relaxing time on the backbenches.”

Graig ward member Cllr David Williams also paid tribute to the outgoing leader, saying: “Bob’s legacy isn’t Friars Walk or even the financial position of the council.

“It’s the robust way he has dealt with those in Cardiff Bay who have sought to destroy our local democracy.”

Cllr Bright, who represents Ringland, has served as a councillor since 1972 and first held the post of leader of Newport City Council from 2004 until 2008.

He was again elected in May 2012 and has held the position ever since. He also served as Mayor during the 1997-1998 electoral year.

His replacement is yet to be appointed, although the Argus understands the role must be filled before the council’s Annual General Meeting on Tuesday, May 17.