Former District Councillor awarded Honorary Alderman title in recognition of outstanding service
West Oxfordshire District Council has awarded former councillor, Mr Julian Cooper, the title of Honorary Alderman in recognition of his eminent service to the Council and the district over four decades of public service.
The honorary title is the highest civic honour the Council can bestow on a former councillor and recognises individuals who have made an outstanding contribution to the authority during their time in office. The title was approved by councillors at a specially convened meeting of Full Council and is only the second time the honour has been awarded by West Oxfordshire District Council.
Mr Julian Cooper served as a West Oxfordshire District Councillor from 1986 to 2006 and again from 2010 until 2026, representing Woodstock and later Woodstock and Bladon. During his time on the Council, he served as Chair of the Council between 2021 and 2023, chaired both the Uplands Area Planning Sub-Committee and the Development Control Committee, and led the Liberal Democrat Group from 2012 to 2019.
Councillor Andy Graham, Leader of West Oxfordshire District Council, said:
"Julian has dedicated a significant part of his life to serving the people of West Oxfordshire and this honour is a fitting recognition of his outstanding contribution to the Council and our communities.
"Throughout his many years as a councillor, Julian approached public service with integrity, commitment and a genuine desire to make a positive difference. He has earned the respect of colleagues from across the political spectrum through his thoughtful leadership, extensive knowledge and unwavering dedication to local government.
"On behalf of West Oxfordshire District Council, I am delighted that we have been able to recognise Julian's exceptional service by awarding him the title of Honorary Alderman. It is a well-deserved honour, and I offer him my sincere gratitude and congratulations."
Mr Julian Cooper, Honorary Alderman, said:
"It has been a great privilege to serve West Oxfordshire over the past four decades. I am proud of the work the Council has done during that time, and of the contribution I have been able to make alongside so many dedicated colleagues and officers.
"West Oxfordshire is a special place, and I have always believed in the value of local government and the difference it can make to people's lives. It has been an honour to play a part in that, and I look forward to seeing the Council continue to meet the challenges and opportunities of the future."
The title of Honorary Alderman is awarded under the Local Government Act 1972 and is reserved for former councillors who, in the opinion of the Council, have rendered eminent service during their time as elected members.