Cllr Paul Harvey has been Leader of Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council since May 2023. He is determined that the new administration (Independent/Lib Dem) will listen to residents and give them confidence in the difference their council can make.

His specific Cabinet responsibilities, as portfolio holder, include economic development and inward investment. He has had a long-term interest in economic development during his over two decades on the council. He believes that the small business community is the bedrock of the borough’s economy and large companies are a critical part of its success but that its future also rests on incubating, innovating and unlocking entrepreneurial talent. 

The Cabinet is 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, and the administration are working on bringing a university to the borough.

Paul previously served as Leader for the 2005 to 2006 council year, before that as a 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. 

Paul is deeply involved in his local community being a school governor and trustee of a community centre, both roles he has held for over decade. 

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 broad 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, also with the University of Reading.