Councillor Ruraidh Stewart has been elected as the new leader of the Highland Council Conservative Group.
Councillor Stewart, who represents Ward 10 Eilean a’ Cheò, takes over from Helen Crawford, who had been in the post for the past 18 months.
Speaking after his election, councillor Stewart said he was honoured to be given the role and was confident he and his colleagues could continue to make positive strides in serving Highland constituents.
He thanked Ms Crawford for her work and said he was committed to promoting transparency, accountability and effective governance.
Councillor Stewart added: “I believe we need a council that will listen to the concerns and priorities of our residents, not just take their council tax to fund vanity projects.
“Unlike this current ‘Independent’/SNP administration, I will work to make sure our council delivers on peoples’ priorities. I will continue to speak up for the taxpayers of Highland and press this council to focus on our communities and provide value for money.”
Mary Scanlon, Highland Conservative Association chairman, said: “Ruraidh Stewart has gained a reputation on Highland Council for highlighting major issues, such as the Corran Ferry, in a factual and reasonable manner focusing on better services for people in Highland rather than scoring political points.
“The Conservatives are fortunate to have Ruraidh holding the SNP/Independent administration to account over spending.”