The new Mayor of Hillingdon was formally voted in at Hillingdon Council’s Annual General Meeting last week. Cllr Colleen Sullivan was officially elected as the new Mayor of Hillingdon, replacing outgoing Mayor, Cllr Shehryar Ahmad-Wallana as the borough’s ceremonial and civic head for the forthcoming year.
Having been a resident of Hillingdon for over four decades, Cllr Sullivan brings a wealth of local knowledge and community connections to her new position. Her journey into local governance began with her mid-term election as a councillor for Hillingdon East in 2020, followed by a successful re-election in May 2022 representing the same ward. She believes her strong local community connections will ably equip her for the year ahead and show how she’s fully invested in the borough and its people.
Accompanying Cllr Sullivan in her official duties is the new Mayoress, Anne Robinson, adding a dynamic dimension to the ceremonial and civic leadership of Hillingdon. Additionally, the appointment of Cllr Philip Corthorne as Deputy Mayor further strengthens the council’s leadership team.
As she assumes her mayoral responsibilities, Cllr Sullivan looks forward to engaging directly with the community. Her inaugural event, the Mayor’s Picnic in the Park at Barra Hall Park in Hayes on Saturday, June 29, presents an opportunity for residents to meet her in person and share their concerns and aspirations for the borough.
In a demonstration of her commitment to supporting local initiatives, Cllr Sullivan has selected Radio Hillingdon and Royal Brompton & Harefield Arts (Hillingdon Branch) as her chosen charities for fundraising efforts during her tenure. These organizations play vital roles in enhancing the lives of residents, particularly in areas such as music therapy for individuals with lung and breathing problems.
Beyond her civic duties, Cllr Sullivan is known for her diverse interests, including a passion for music, literature, and sports. As an avid follower of rugby, cricket, football, and motor racing, she embodies the spirit of community engagement and cultural appreciation.
Speaking of her appointment, Cllr Sullivan said: “I am excited about serving the community as the Mayor of Hillingdon. I am looking forward to a busy and exciting year ahead full of wonderful vibrant events.
“My aim during my Mayoral year is to form new friendships, partnerships and highlight the fascinating history of this great borough and how we can all play a part in its past and its future.”
“I have always enjoyed getting involved with local initiatives and events and have a close association with the local residents’ association, local shopkeepers and am very much embedded in the community.
“I am the Neighbourhood Watch co-ordinator for my area and a member of the local Ward Panel and Safer Neighbourhood Board and I am a regular worshipper at All Saints Church, Hillingdon.”
Looking back at his year filled to bursting with engagements and events of all kinds, all over the borough, outgoing Mayor, Cllr Ahmad-Wallana, said: “It truly has been an exemplary year, and I can say without hesitation that I have had the time of my life.
“Meeting residents, reaching out to the business community through work as the Mayor and uniting every portion of the community as a one community, through supporting diversity in the borough have been the highlights of my tenure and deeply rewarding.”
