West Berkshire Council leader to step down
Mr Jones, a Lambourn pharmacist, said he had taken the decision to dedicate more time time to his work and business commitments.
He has held the position since May 2005, and said he was proud of what had been achieved in that time, such as the opening of the Parkway complex and the Vue cinema.
He thanked his Conservative colleagues and the council's chief executive, Nick Carter, for their support.
"I have been privileged to enjoy a fantastic seven years in post," he said.
“This administration has delivered much but we still have more to do at a time when we have less money given to us by central government.
"Some difficult choices lie ahead as we continue the process of delivering a balanced budget.
"There are new business opportunities opening up in the eastern part of the district. We have a Local Development Framework in place that will ensure that our housing needs will be met but that our Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty will be preserved.
"Internally, there has been a relentless drive to focus on that which is necessary, concentrating on finding ways of delivering better value for money for the people of West Berkshire.”
He said he will continue to represent Lambourn and will continue to pursue his interest in health services as they join forces with the local authority.
A new leader will be elected at the next meeting of the council on September 27.