Haworth steps down as UCES head

Controversial environmentalist Julian Haworth has retired from the presidency of the Upper Clutha Environmental Society and intends to leave the watchdog group's executive committee, next year.

Mr Haworth stepped down at the UCES annual meeting, this week, and was appointed secretary to the society's executive committee, after reaching the end of his constitutionally prescribed three-year term as president.

He intends to pursue a consultant's role and work on behalf of the UCES as an "adviser" on planning and environmental issues, from June next year.

Separating himself from the executive would give him more freedom to legally challenge "inappropriate" developments through the Resource Management Act process, he said.

Dennis Schwarz, of Wanaka, is the new president.