The new leader of Wychavon has vowed to put the economy and town centre regeneration at the heart of his administration.
Cllr Richard Morris (pictured) was elected to the role at a Council meeting on Wednesday, 14 May, taking over from Cllr Chris Day who had led the authority since October 2023.
Thanking councillors for putting their faith in him, Cllr Morris promised to ensure the voices of residents were heard and listened to across all political parties.
“I am humbled and honoured to have this opportunity to lead Wychavon, which I hold very close to my heart,” Cllr Morris said.
“From Broadway to Hartlebury and Bredon to Upton Warren, I will ensure no part of our wonderful district is left behind and gets the support it needs. I look forward to getting out and meeting residents across Wychavon and continuing to work collaboratively with our town and parish councils.
“Cllr Day stands among the great leaders Wychavon has had over the last 50 years, and I thank him for everything he has brought to the council and the district during his time in charge.
“I want Wychavon to be economic led. We’ve had some great successes but there are also challenges ahead. We need to ensure we deliver the visions in our Town Centre Investment Prospectuses and build on the good work being done by the place boards.
“I will also ensure we get a resolution to issues around the Riverside Shopping Centre and the former Raven Hotel which I know matter so much to our residents.”
Cllr Morris also made changes to his Executive Board team. Cllr Emma Stokes takes on responsibility for resources, street cleaning and waste and recycling. Cllr Emma Kearsey is now Deputy Leader and in charge of planning.
Cllr Paul Middlebrough has been tasked with responsibility for Local Government Reorganisation in recognition of government plans that will see Wychavon replaced by 2029 by a new larger council covering a wider geographic area.
“The vast experience I have as both a district and county councillor, including holding senior positions in both authorities, means I am well placed to lead us through the change that is coming,” Cllr Morris added.
“Government has made it clear we’re on the course to unitary government. We must make sure everything Wychavon stands for and the support we provide for our residents doesn’t just disappear because of that process.
“Wychavon is recognised as one of the best councils in the country and we must leave a legacy that ensures our residents are best served within the new unitary.”