DUP MLA William Humphrey hands over to NIcola Verner who replaces him on Belfast City Council.

WILLIAM Humphrey is standing down as a councillor in Belfast, the DUP has announced on Friday afternoon.

He will be replaced by co-opted party candidate Nicola Verner who will be in place for the full council meeting on October 1.

Alderman Humphrey has represented the Court area of the Shankill on Belfast City Council since 2005.

He is a member of the Assembly for North Belfast.

Mr Humphrey said: “I take great satisfaction in having been able to push forward various significant local projects during my time on the Council.

“These including the substantial refurbishment of Woodvale Park, the new pitch at Woodvale Cricket Club and new 3G football pitch at the Hammer, arterial route improvements along the Shankill, Crumlin and Woodvale Roads and on-going housing regeneration including the new social housing finally underway at Somerval

Nicola Verner said it was a “great honour” to have been chose to replace Mr Humphrey.

“As someone who has lived all my life in the Greater Shankill area, I am aware of his dedication to this community and I will work diligently to continue that reputation. I look forward to working closely with the local community in this new capacity and with the strong team of party colleagues locally and at City Hall.’

“I am committed to the area, a community I am passionate about. This is reflected in my employment history and through my personal life and my connections to the area.”