Tributes have been paid to former West Sussex County Councillor Richard Burrett, who has died at the age of 57.
Richard died on 25 June, 2026.
He represented the Pound Hill in Crawley for the Conservatives from 2009 until 2026.
He was Chairman of the Planning and Rights of Way Committee, Chairman of the Standing Advisory Council on Religious Education, Chairman of South East Employers and Vice-Chairman of Performance and Finance Scrutiny Committee prior to May 2026.
He previously served as the Cabinet Member for Education and Skills and was a long-serving member of Crawley Borough Council until 2024.
Cllr Donna Johnson, Chair of West Sussex County Council said “I was shocked and saddened by this news. Richard was a hard-working, much-loved member of West Sussex County Council and his efforts for the residents of West Sussex were respected across the chamber.”
Cllr Paul Marshall, Leader of the Conservative Group, added “Richard was a diligent councillor who had an excellent eye for detail. He played a leading part in the Conservative Group, as well as working in several senior roles on the County Council. He will be greatly missed.”
West Sussex County Council said Richard’s contribution to public life in Crawley and across the county would be remembered by colleagues and residents.
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