Andrew Jamieson, cabinet member for finance, as well as the authority's deputy leader, is the latest high profile Conservative to announce he will not seeking re-election.

Andrew Jamieson (Image: Denise Bradley)

Mr Jamieson, who has represented North Coast division since 2017, said the government's decision to create three unitary councils for Norfolk, when the current councils are abolished, had convinced him not to stand again.

Mr Jamieson, who had spearheaded County Hall's case for a single council covering the whole county, said: "I have always warned that splitting Norfolk into two or three unitaries would put political vanity above public service and risk creating unviable authorities – especially in the west of the county.

"But the government has not listened to logic and facts. It has put politics before principle.

"I am immensely proud of Norfolk County Council and its achievements and I had hoped to see things through to the end of this fine organisation in 2028. I wanted to be a founding father of a new unitary council.

"But the government’s decision to reject a single unitary authority has made my mind up for me.

"I can’t help to create something that will unpick all the achievements of the county council, create further financial strain and, ultimately, mean worse outcomes for the people of Norfolk."

More than a dozen councillors, including Alison Thomas, Conservative cabinet member for adult social care and Labour group leader Steve Morphew had already announced they will not stand on May 7.

They will be the final elections for the county council before it is abolished and replaced with three new councils - Greater Norwich, East Norfolk and West Norfolk.

The opposition Liberal Democrat group has also confirmed four of its sitting councillors will not stand in May.

Steffan Aquarone (Image: Steffan Aquarone)

One is Steffan Aquarone, who represents Melton Constable and is also North Norfolk MP.

Steve Riley (Aylsham), Sharon Blundell (Costessey) and Saul Penfold (North Walsham West and Erpingham) are the other Lib Dems not standing.

Elections for the new unitary councils will take place in May 2027.

The new councils will be set up in "shadow" form before they formally replace the current eight councils in 2028.

© Norwich Evening News