Former Herefordshire councillor Tony Johnson remembered for driving Hereford’s change and regeneration

Former Herefordshire councillor Tony Johnson oversaw a period of significant transformation in Hereford during his time as leader of Herefordshire Council, including the 2014 completion of the Old Market shopping centre on the site of the city’s former livestock market. He also played a key role in advancing economic development in the city, particularly through the early delivery phase of the Rotherwas Enterprise Zone. First elected as a councillor in 2010, he served as leader of the council from May 2013 to May 2018, and continued as councillor for Hope End ward until standing down from public office in 2023.

Mr Johnson, who died on Saturday, 2 May, had spent more than 30 years working in banking before entering local government, contributing to the transformation of TSB from a state‑run organisation into a commercial business. He retired from banking in 2001.

Current council leader Councillor Jonathan Lester paid tribute, describing Mr Johnson as a “kind and generous man, dedicated to his duties as both councillor and council leader”. He said Johnson was “widely respected, wholly committed to leading the council, and will be remembered for his good nature.”

“He steered the county through a period of real change and achievement,” Councillor Lester said, adding it had been “a privilege” to work with him. “He oversaw the delivery of landmark regeneration projects such as the Old Market development, transforming a long‑standing brownfield site into a vibrant destination that helped revitalise Hereford city centre. He also played a pivotal role in laying the foundations of the Rotherwas Enterprise Zone.”

The council extended its sincere condolences to Tony’s family, friends and all those who had the privilege of working with him. As a mark of respect, Herefordshire Council will fly the County Flag at half‑mast on the day of his funeral.