New Chairman is raring to go!

Published: Friday, 15th May 2026

Cllr Margot McArthur, a self-confessed ‘petrolhead’ is gearing up for a full throttle year as Sevenoaks District Council’s new Chairman.

From a young age, Margot tinkered with cars and, while studying for psychology, social science and business degrees in Nottingham and Manchester, she would regularly spend her spare time in the university garages.

Margot says: “For as long as I can remember, I’ve had a passion for petrol power. It may sound unusual, but I built my first kit car at university. I feel completely at home working on cars be it replacing a carburetor, rewiring a loom or rebuilding an engine.

“I’m also a huge fan of rally car racing and do my best to attend as many events as possible.”

Margot grew up in the north, midlands and Scotland and settled in Edenbridge some years ago.

She owns a consultancy advising local companies and central Government ministries and departments about efficiency, restructuring, recruitment and the development of staff and services.

Margot is a Chartered Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development, having worked in the UK and many places overseas for major brands and industry-leading organisations.

She is also a member of the Employment Appeal Tribunal, an appointment made by the Queen.

Margot was elected as our Chairman at the Annual Council meeting on 14 May 2026, and says: “I’m deeply honoured and excited to take on this role. During my year, I want to promote our wonderful District and forge new relationships.”

“I will be supporting my charity Bore Place. They do amazing work to support wildlife and the environment, and their focus is helping children and young people with additional needs through enjoyment of the natural world and outdoor activities.

“I have seen firsthand how this charity can make a real difference, so I’ll be doing everything possible to raise money and awareness to support its amazing work.”

Margot was elected to Sevenoaks District Council over ten years ago to represent the Edenbridge South and West ward. She served on the Council’s Cabinet leading on the early work to improve waste collection services.

She was also a Kent County Councillor and has served as an Edenbridge Town Councillor for 15 years.

In her spare time, Margot enjoys travel and active sports, including sea and sand surfing, hang gliding and kayaking.

Margot is a trustee for three local charities, one being the Great Stone Bridge Trust Edenbridge which supports parish and town clubs and societies and awards educational grants.

She is also a volunteer for the Gatwick Passenger Advisory Group, which works to improve the customer experience at the airport.

Margot welcomes invitations to community events. To invite Margot, visit www.sevenoaks.gov.uk/chairman or call 01732 227247.

Cllr Penny Cole was elected as the Council's Vice-Chairman at the same Annual Council meeting.