Newcastle City Council will begin moves to appoint a new chief executive next month, following the news current boss, Barry Rowland, is to step down from the top role at the end of August.

Mr Rowland, who leaves by mutual agreement after 33 years of service, became Newcastle's chief in 2009, has helped oversee a five-year transformation programme across the authority - which has yielded in £222m savings.

Commenting on his departure, Mr Rowland said: ‘I have enjoyed my time at the city and leave a strong council which is now one of the best in the country. A council that provides excellent services, with excellent staff, which serves its community well.