Councillor Ross Garrod has been the Leader of Merton Council since May 2022. He represents Longthornton ward in Mitcham, and previously served as a councillor in Lavender Fields ward between 2014 and 2018 – during which time he also served as Cabinet Member for Street Cleanliness and Parking from 2016 to 2018. Prior to becoming Leader, Cllr Garrod worked on the Crossrail Elizabeth Line project and at London City Airport.
Cllr Garrod has lived in Mitcham all his life – which has instilled in him a great pride in his community, and a drive to make it better for everyone. He went to Benedict Primary School, The Priory Church of England Middle School, and Rutlish High School before going on to study at Queen Mary University of London.
Sport has always played an important role in Cllr Garrod’s life – from playing football locally as a youngster, to running the mini-marathon and training at the local running track. Cllr Garrod regularly volunteers at community sports events, including the Junior Park Run on Figge’s Marsh. And it is the access to sport, and the positive impact it can have on people’s health and the community that has led to his ambition for Merton to become London’s Borough of Sport.
More information about Cllr Ross Garrod
Councillor details: Ross Garrod