New cabinet announced and new mayor elected

The leader of Rossendale Council has announced her new cabinet as councillors met for the first Council meeting of the municipal year.

Councillor Alyson Barnes was elected leader by fellow councillors at the meeting last Friday.

She appointed a new look Cabinet and announced new portfolios to better align with the Council’s priorities.

At the meeting, Councillor Barbara Ashworth was also elected Mayor and first citizen of the borough for 2019/20.

Councillor Barnes said:

“My fellow councillors and I elected Councillor Ashworth as Mayor. She will serve this borough very well and I know will use every opportunity to promote Rossendale as a great place to live, work and visit. She will be a good ambassador for the area.”

On her own confirmation as leader and her new cabinet appointments, Councillor Barnes said:

“I am honoured to have been elected leader again and pledge to continue working hard to improve the borough. I  am pleased with the new cabinet appointments and know each one will be very committed to delivering for the borough and its residents.

“I truly believe the next year will be an exciting one for the borough with lots of projects being delivered and work being done to achieve our priorities.

“Of course, we still face challenges but myself and my Cabinet colleagues will work hard to tackle the issues the borough needs addressing.

“I know all my fellow colleagues from all sides of the chamber also want what’s best for the borough and look forward to working with them over the year.”

The new Cabinet is:

Councillor Alyson Barnes – Leader as well as the  Leisure and Tourism brief

Councillor Jackie Oakes –  Deputy Leader as well the Regeneration and Economic Development brief

Councillor Andrew Walmsley – Resources

Councillor Sean Serridge – Corporate Services

Councillor Steve Hughes – Customers, Communities and Public Protection Unit (to including housing and some health activity)

Councillor Adrian Lythgoe – Operations and Development Control