Former Councillor Johnson, 89 served as Leader from May 2013 to May 2018. Following his time as Leader, he continued to serve as a councillor for Hope End ward until standing down from public office in 2023.

As Leader, Councillor Johnson oversaw a period of significant change and delivery for the county. This included the completion and opening of the Old Market retail and leisure development in Hereford in 2014, one of the most significant regeneration projects in the city for a generation. Built on the former livestock market site, the development transformed a long standing brownfield area into a new destination for shopping, leisure and employment, helping to revitalise the city centre and attract investment.

He also played a key role in advancing economic development, particularly through the early delivery phase of the Hereford (Rotherwas) Enterprise Zone. Supported by new planning arrangements introduced in 2013, the Enterprise Zone was designed to attract new businesses and skilled jobs to the county, with a focus on advanced manufacturing, engineering and technology. The foundations laid during this period helped establish Rotherwas as a central part of Herefordshire’s long term economic strategy.

Alongside regeneration and growth, former Cllr Johnson led the council through a challenging period for local government finances, marked by significant reductions in central government funding. During this time, the council set balanced budgets while continuing to prioritise investment in infrastructure, economic development and essential services. His leadership during this period was characterised by a strong focus on financial responsibility, long term planning and partnership working.

Paying tribute, the current Leader of Herefordshire Council, Councillor Jonathan Lester, said:

“Tony Johnson was a kind and generous man, dedicated to his duties as both councillor and council leader. He was widely respected and, for those fortunate enough to have known him, will be remembered for his good nature and the ease with which he got along with others. He was wholly committed to leading the council and carried out his responsibilities with determination and forbearance, always encouraging those he worked with.

“He steered the county through a period of real change and achievement. He oversaw the delivery of landmark regeneration projects such as the Old Market development, transforming a long standing brownfield site into a vibrant destination that helped revitalise Hereford city centre. He also played a pivotal role in laying the foundations of the Rotherwas Enterprise Zone, helping to attract new businesses and skilled jobs and shaping a long term economic strategy for the county. All of this was achieved during an exceptionally challenging financial period for local government, when Tony’s calm leadership ensured the council continued to invest in infrastructure, economic growth and essential services. His contribution as Leader leaves a lasting legacy for Herefordshire.”

“After stepping down as Leader, Tony continued to fulfil his duties as a local ward councillor. I was pleased to keep in touch with him when he left the council for good in 2023 and he was always keen to hear about how things were going on at Plough Lane and the wider county. He was a true public servant. It was a privilege to have worked with him and, like many, I will miss him very much.”

Former Councillor Johnson was first elected to Herefordshire Council in 2010, representing the Hope End ward. As well as serving as Leader of the Council, he chaired (and vice chaired) the council’s Employment Panel, and represented Herefordshire Council as Chair of the Marches Enterprise Joint Committee, contributing to partnership working and regional economic development.

Before entering local government, Councillor Johnson spent more than 30 years working in the banking sector, playing a role in the transformation of TSB from a state-run organisation into a commercial business. He retired from banking in 2001.

The council extends its sincere condolences to Tony’s family, friends and all those who had the privilege of working with him.

As a mark of respect, Herefordshire Council will fly the County Flag at half-mast on the day of his funeral.