Opposition Melton borough councillors announce 'shadow cabinet' roles
Independent and Labour councillors on Melton Borough Council have announced a ‘shadow cabinet’ to focus their efforts to holding the Conservative-led administration to account.
The Tory group regained minority control of the authority in April after Labour councillor Pip Allnatt stepped down as leader due to ill health and Councillor Ronan Browne was elected as his successor during a dramatic full council meeting in which the then Mayor, Councillor Siggy Atherton, broke the 14-14 deadlock by delivering her casting vote.
It meant the Independent/Labour coalition lost control of the council, which they had won following the local elections in May 2023.
Their members remain keen to have an influence on council decisions, however, so they have taken on different portfolios to ensure there are checks and balances in place for the new administration.
Councillor Margaret Glancy (Independent), who was formerly deputy leader, said: “Independent and Labour Councillors are pleased to announce their Opposition Portfolio Champions following the change of administration at Melton Borough Council.
“The Opposition Portfolio Champions will continue the good work on behalf of residents tackling local issues.
“If you have a problem, please do not hesitate to contact the champions or your local Independent or Labour Councillor – we are your voice and are happy to help.
"It is encouraging to see that so far, the new administration are rolling out many of the improvements we had planned, budgeted and scheduled, however we would like to assure you we are and will remain committed to helping residents of our borough.”
Opposition Portfolio Champions are: Councillor Sharon Butcher – strategic community safety and economic investment including visitor economy, events, town centre regeneration (email [email protected]);
Councillor Steve Carter – housing and private sector housing ([email protected]);
Councillor Margaret Clay – rural affairs ([email protected]);
Councillor Sarah Cox – budget, finance, resources & assets ([email protected]);
Councillor Pat Cumbers – corporate governance ([email protected]);
Councillor Margret Glancy – strategic project delivery and external funding plus waste and environmental services plus health and leisure services plus planning policy including the Local Plan & strategic infrastructure ([email protected]);
Councillor Leigh Higgins – customer services, communities & helping people and regulatory services ([email protected]);
Councillor Richard Sharp – rural affairs ([email protected]).