WYCHAVON’S new leader has vowed to put the economy and town centre regeneration at the heart of his administration after being sworn into the role last week.
Councillor Richard Morris was elected to the role at a council meeting last Wednesday (May 14), taking over from Coun Chris Day who had led the authority since October 2023.
“Coun 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,” Coun Morris said.
Going on to thank councillors for putting their faith in him, Coun 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, which I hold very close to my heart,” Coun Morris said.
“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.”
Forming a major part of town centre regeneration plans will be fixing ongoing saga’s at Evesham’s RIverside Shopping Centre and Droitwich Spa’s Raven Hotel. Both of which have fell foul of neglectful owners.
The new leader has also made changes to his executive board team to help deliver on his promises. Most notably is the tasking of Coun Paul Middlebrough with responsibility for local government reorganisation.
Coun Middlebrough’s role will focus on a smooth transition for Wychavon in Worcestershire’s move towards a unitary authority. The government enforced devolution plans will strip away district and borough councils in favour of an all-encompassing council responsible for countywide and local services.
“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,” Coun Morris added.
“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.”
As well as this, Coun Emma Stokes takes on responsibility for resources, street cleaning and waste and recycling and Coun Emma Kearsey has been named deputy leader and will be in charge of planning.
“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,” Coun Morris added.
