Following the recent local elections, Rossendale Borough Council has announced the composition of its new cabinet, as Labour secures two-thirds of the seats, ensuring the council remains Labour-led.
Leader of the Council, Alyson Barnes, expressed gratitude for the contributions of former Deputy Leader Jackie Oakes, who lost her seat after 14 years of service. "Jackie has been and I’m sure will remain, at the centre of her community, her dedication to public service has been extraordinary. You’d be hard pressed to find a harder working councillor anywhere in the country. We’d like to thank Jackie for her tireless efforts and wish her the very best for the future."
Jackie Oakes was also made Honorary Alderman at the council meeting in recognition of her service.
Taking up the mantle of Deputy Leader is Michelle Smith, an experienced councillor who has represented Bacup as an Irwell councillor for 9 years.
Commenting on her new role, Councillor Smith remarked: "I am honoured to have been appointed as Deputy Leader of Rossendale Borough Council and I’d like to echo Alyson in thanking Jackie Oakes for her years of service on the council.
“I am committed to working hard alongside Councillor Barnes and the rest of the cabinet to serve our community and address the challenges we face."
Leader Alyson Barnes added: "Despite the tough economic circumstances affecting us all, we remain determined in our resolve to work hard for the people of Rossendale. Our priorities remain clear – to ensure the prosperity and wellbeing of our all residents."
The cabinet positions and their respective portfolios are as follows:
- Alyson Barnes - Leader of the Council and Lead Member for Economic Development
- Michelle Smith - Deputy Leader of the Council and Lead Member for Planning, Licensing and Enforcement
- Andrew Walmsley - Lead Member for Resources
- Liz McInnes - Lead Member for Communities, Housing and Health
- Adrian Lythgoe - Lead Member for Environment and Corporate Services.
The new Mayor and Deputy Mayor were also unveiled at the full council meeting, with Councillor Judith Driver nominated as Mayor and Councillor Annie McMahon as Deputy Mayor.