New Conservative administration sets out early priorities

Cllr Simon Whelband, Leader of the Council, said: "With Local Government Reorganisation on the horizon, we have no time to waste. We are already delivering on the priorities we secured in the budget.

"Residents told us they want action on fly-tipping, cleaner streets, and better, more accessible play equipment - and that is exactly what we will deliver.

"Small and micro businesses, particularly in hospitality, have been clear about the pressures they face. We will introduce a new small grants scheme to support them with rising costs.

"We want local councillors to have more of a say, so decisions are taken closer to the communities they serve. We will reshape the council’s grants system so ward councillors have greater influence, ensuring funding is distributed fairly across every part of the district.

"This is a big task, but I have a strong team around me to help deliver it.

"This is just the start. We want to go further - backing our rural communities, supporting our market towns and village centres, and standing behind the small businesses that are the backbone of our local economy.

"We will refocus the council on these priorities, while giving clear reassurance to parish and town councils and community groups that they will continue to have our full support.

"We have made these changes happen - now we will deliver.”

To help achieve these aims, Cllr Whelband has appointed the following councillors to serve in the Cabinet:

Leader - Cllr Simon Whelband 

Deputy Leader & Finance Portfolio Holder - Cllr Phil King

Planning Portfolio Holder - Cllr Rosita Page

Neighbourhood Services Portfolio Holder - Cllr David Page

Corporate Services Portfolio Holder - Cllr Paul Dann

Wellbeing & Housing Portfolio Holder - Cllr Amanda Nunn