Councillor Giles Archibald is to step down as the leader of South Lakeland District Council (SLDC) after five years at the helm.
Cllr Archibald, a Liberal Democrat, said he believed the time had come for a new leader with a fresh perspective to take over.
He will step down as leader at SLDC’s annual meeting on May 19, when a new leader will be appointed.
“I came in as leader five years ago and a large part of the vision I expressed at that time has been accomplished, so I think it is only fair and right for someone else to bring new ideas to the council,” said Cllr Archibald, who has been a South Lakeland district councillor for nine years and represents the Kendal Town ward.