Chelmsford councillor Roy Whitehead granted honorary title

The rare honour was awarded to Councillor Roy Whitehead during a ceremony held by Chelmsford Council on Wednesday, July 15, in recognition of his exceptional contributions to the city and its communities.

Councillor Roy Whitehead receiving his medal (Image: Paul Starr)

Mr Whitehead, who first joined the council in 1999, served as leader of the Conservative administration from 2003 to 2019, steering Chelmsford through a period of significant change and growth.

He said: "Being a borough and then city councillor has, and continues to be, a great pleasure as it enables me to work for the residents of Chelmsford.

Deputy Mayor of Chelmsford councillor Julia Frascona presents Roy Whitehead with a scroll recording the conferment of the Freedom of the City (Image: Paul Starr)

"I am deeply grateful to all the councillors, officers, volunteers, parish councillors, friends and family who have been part of that journey, and I am most truly grateful for the honour of becoming a Freeman of the City of Chelmsford."

Mr Whitehead led a range of major projects during his time as leader.

His achievements include the development of Bond Street, the transformation of Riverside Leisure Centre, and the launch of the Grand Pavilion at Hylands House.

Councillor Roy Whitehead was surprised at the ceremony by his son David, who had travelled from Chelmsford's twinned town of Backnang in Germany to be there (Image: Paul Starr)

Stephen Robinson, leader of Chelmsford Council, said: "I am delighted to support the nomination of Cllr Roy Whitehead as a Freeman of the City.

"It is entirely appropriate that we recognise his decades of public service to Chelmsford."

He also highlighted Mr Whitehead’s involvement in securing city status for Chelmsford in 2012.

The Macebearer, Deputy Mayor councillor Julia Frascona and councillor Roy Whitehead (Image: Paul Starr)

Janette Potter, a Conservative councillor who has worked alongside Mr Whitehead for nearly 30 years, praised his lasting impact.

She said: "On behalf of the council, staff, former councillor members far and wide, some not with us anymore but not forgotten, South Hanningfield Parish Council, friends, and family, I would like to congratulate him on achieving this honour, the Freedom of the City of Chelmsford: Councillor Roy Whitehead."

The freedom of the city is one of the highest civic honours awarded by Chelmsford City Council and has only been granted twice in the past 20 years.

At the ceremony, Mr Whitehead made a formal declaration to preserve the peace, uphold the city’s customs, and continue to support Chelmsford through his advice and counsel.