Gloucester City Council chief executive Julian Wain has announced his intention to stand down at the end of the month -  after nearly seven years in the top role.

The change follows an overhaul of senior management at the council designed to drive further cost savings.

Gloucester's director of resources, Peter Gillett and Martin Shields, director of service and neighbourhoods, will be jointly responsible for running the council's senior management on an interim basis.

Mr Wain said: ‘I have enjoyed my time in Gloucester and the fascinating range of work I have been involved in for the City Council.

‘However, I recognise the need for the council to make significant further savings and in advance of that, it is appropriate for me to move on to other ventures,' he added.

Gloucester City leader, Cllr Pual James said the council had delivered more than £7.5m budget savings in the last four years.

‘However, as council budgets continue to come under pressure, we will need to further reduce costs and we are looking at every option to minimise the impact on services,' he added.

A further comment on behalf of the Council's three political groups said: ‘The council has made significant progress during Julian's time as chief executive. We would like to thank him for all he has done for the city and we wish him well for the future.'