The new leader of Kirklees Council has pledged to listen and put local people first, insisting the district has a bright future despite the financial struggles.

Clr Carole Pattison, who had a career in local government and became a councillor in 2010, told of her pride at becoming council leader.

Clr Pattison has also confirmed her new eight-strong Cabinet and the portfolios and responsibilities. Four councillors are new to Cabinet roles.

Labour group leader Clr Pattison, who represents the Greenhead ward in Huddersfield, was elected to the top position after she led a vote of no confidence to oust previous leader Clr Cathy Scott.

Though Labour remains the biggest group on the council, the party lost overall control in the disastrous May elections and has seen no fewer than 11 councillors quit the party since January.

One of Clr Pattison’s first decisions as council leader was to pause hugely unpopular plans to scrap free parking in 57 council car parks across the district. Read more about that HERE.

This included car parks in larger town centres including Batley and Cleckheaton as well as some small village car parks in the likes of Honley, Meltham, Lindley, Kirkburton, Slaithwaite and Golcar.

Thousands of people signed petitions in Honley, Meltham and Cleckheaton. There were warnings that imposing charges in some tiny village car parks would end up costing the council money to operate as well as hitting small businesses.

 

Council leader Carole Pattison and deputy leader Clr Moses Crook

 

In her first words as council leader Clr Pattison said: “It’s the honour of a lifetime to be elected leader of Kirklees Council. I’m thankful for the opportunity to serve residents and communities across Kirklees.

“I pledge to uphold the values of public service and to put residents first in everything we do.

“Kirklees is a such a brilliant place to represent. We have strong and diverse communities, cutting-edge industries and a huge sense of pride in our heritage.

“We’ve got a bright future too. Major improvements are coming to our transport network and we’re attracting investment into the economy in every part of Kirklees.

“All of this is going to bring opportunities for future generations in Huddersfield, Dewsbury, Batley and beyond.

“But Kirklees doesn’t always feel so full of opportunity for a lot of our residents. Too many people are still struggling with the cost-of-living crisis and public services are under huge strain. I want to play my part in making sure the council supports those residents who need it most.

“It won’t be easy. We’ve got big challenges to overcome. My work starts by listening to residents and hearing their concerns.

“We need to bring people with us as we improve services and give Kirklees residents the opportunities they deserve.

“There’s a lot of work to be done and I’m keen to get on with it.”

The new Kirklees Council Cabinet is:

Clr Pattison – Leader of the Council and Culture;

Clr Moses Crook (Holme Valley South) – Deputy Leader and Transport and Housing;

Clr Graham Turner (Golcar) – Finance and Regeneration;

Clr Viv Kendrick (Heckmondwike) – Children’s Services;

Clr Amanda Pinnock (Ashbrow) – Education and Communities;

Clr Beverley Addy (Colne Valley) – Health and Adult Services;

Clr Munir Ahmed (Dalton) – Environment and Highways;

Clr Tyler Hawkins (Dalton) – Corporate.

 

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