Cllr Paul Harvey has been Leader of Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council since May 2023. In just 18 months Basingstoke and Deane's administration, led by a collective of Independent and Lib Dem councillors, has unlocked the door to major inward investment in new Grade A office space, new retail and manufacturing space, new leisure and community facilities and major plans for regeneration. Basingstoke and Deane is thriving, confidence is high and the council is a proactive partner ready to work in partnership to deliver.

Paul holds the portfolio for economic development and inward investment and the administration is focused on delivering positive outcomes for residents and business in the borough.  With a clear vision for the future, the council is committed to working with private and public sector partners to deliver on its high ambitions.

This includes driving forward projects for the future including the delivery of Manydown North, a new community of up to 3,520 new homes, with 40% of these homes being affordable, a 250-acre countryside park and other mixed uses including businesses, shops and community facilities. Work is also under way to attract university-level education and facilities, and a new hospital.

Focusing on a thriving economy for the borough and it being a place that has jobs, skills, opportunities, infrastructure and services that its communities need, it's an exciting time to be a part of the journey.

Paul previously served as Leader for the 2005 to 2006 council year and before that he was the Cabinet member responsible for economic development, between September 2002 and 2005. Regional and national bodies that Paul sits on include the executive of the District Councils’ Network, Hampshire and Isle of Wight Local Government Association and the Executive of South East England Councils.

In his work life outside the council, Paul was part of the team that successfully delivered planning permission for a major new film studio complex in Shinfield, near Reading. He has a wealth of experience working on major projects in London and around the country, including life sciences, residential development, landmark infrastructure and social housing.

Paul holds a doctorate in International Politics and is an Associate Lecturer for the Open University. Specialising in strategic affairs and defence, he has previously taught at King’s College London, with the Joint Services Command Staff College and Defence Academy and the University of Reading.