Councillor steps down at Preston City Council

11 May 2020

Councillor Ian Donnell has stood down as a Councillor for Preston Rural East at Preston City Council to embark on a new career as a doctor after completion of his medical training at Royal Preston Hospital.

Adrian Phillips, Chief Executive and Returning Officer for Preston City Council said,

"Councillor Ian Donnell, whose term as Councillor was due to end with the scheduled local elections on Thursday 7 May 2020, has stood down from the Council.

Dr Ian Donnell, who served as a Preston City Ward Councillor for the last two years has moved away from Preston on completion of his medical training at Royal Preston Hospital. He will shortly begin his medical career as a Junior Doctor.

Due to the suspension of local elections, the Council will have what is known as a 'casual vacancy,' which cannot be filled until the next local elections take place in May 2021. There are two other Councillors who remain in post for the Preston Rural East Ward.

We thank Dr Donnell for his service on the City Council and send him our best wishes as he begins his medical career with the NHS in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic."

Dr Ian Donnell, former Councillor at Preston City Council said:

"It has been my pleasure to serve the people of Preston as Ward Councillor for Preston Rural East. I want to thank my fellow councillors for making me welcome and my constituents for their support.

I have had the privilege to meet a fantastic range of people in the city and will take many warm memories with me as I embark on my new career as a Doctor."

Further Information

• An election to fill the vacancy would normally be held within thirty five days (computed in accordance with Section 243(4) of the Local Government Act, 1972), however if an election is requested, after notice in writing of the vacancy has been given to the undersigned by two local government electors for the ward, a poll cannot currently take place until 6 May 2021 as prescribed by the Local Government and Police and Crime Commissioner (Coronavirus) (Postponement of Elections and Referendums) (England and Wales) Regulations 2020 and the Coronavirus Act 2020.  
• If no request for an election is received, the seat will remain vacant and be filled at the ordinary election in May 2021
• We are working with partners across the County to support the most vulnerable in our community who are facing difficulties, worries and loneliness as a result of Coronavirus (Covid-19).
  • If you are isolated by Covid-19 and need help please visit for more information, or ring 01772 906777 or email support@preston.gov.uk
• Preston City Council actively applies and prioritises the principles of Community Wealth Building wherever applicable and appropriate.
• Community Wealth Building is an approach which aims to ensure the economic system builds wealth and prosperity for everyone.