During a full Council meeting yesterday evening, the Labour Party officially appointed their new Leader and Cabinet members.
Following a majority win at the recent local elections, Labour is now in full control of Nuneaton and Bedworth Borough Council.
Cllr Chris Watkins was officially appointed as Leader of the Borough Council alongside Cllr Jill Sheppard as Deputy Leader. The Party also appointed their Cabinet members. Each Cabinet member is responsible for a specific policy area, known as a portfolio.
The positions of Civic Mayor and Deputy Mayor were also assigned at the meeting. The Mayor carries out ceremonial duties as ‘First Citizen’ of the Borough and chairs Council meetings. The appointments were made as follows:
- Mayor – Cllr Bill Hancox
- Deputy Mayor – Cllr Bhim Saru
Portfolio Holders:
- Cllr Chris Watkins (Stockingford West) – Housing
- Cllr Steve Hey (Attleborough) – Resources and Customer Services
- Cllr Tim Jenkins (Exhall) – Leisure, Communities and Health
- Cllr Jill Sheppard (St Mary's) – Environment and Public Services
- Cllr Nicola King (Stockingford East) – Business and Regeneration
- Cllr Rob Roze (Heath) – Planning and Enforcement
Leader of Nuneaton and Bedworth Borough Council, Cllr Watkins, said:
“We are thrilled to be taking control of the Borough Council, which is the first time that Labour has had full control since 2016.
“We have built a new Labour Group under my leadership, and we are committed to bring back civility and good manners to the Council Chamber.
“Our reshaped Cabinet is very much looking forward to developing a better way of working with officers, focusing on regenerating and driving our Borough forward.
“We are committed to listening to our communities and are determined to deliver a vision for the Borough that exceeds their needs and expectations.”