SOLIHULL Council has a new leader and the ruling Conservative group has reshuffled its cabinet.
Councillor Ian Courts was elected as the new leader, replacing Bob Sleigh.
The new cabinet was also agreed at Solihull’s Annual General Meeting on Tuesday (May 14).
Coun Courts, who has been deputy leader since 2014, takes up the leadership role after Coun Sleigh announced last month he was stepping down.
Speaking to the Observer following his appointment Coun Courts said: “It is an honour, but also of course a great responsibility to take on.
“I have been a councillor now for some 16 years, including my year as Mayor, and I am very proud of the borough.
“I am looking forward to doing my part towards Solihull’s continued economic success, maintaining good services for our residents, and cooperating with our partners in Solihull and regionally on such matters as the health, skills and inclusive growth agendas, and importantly the environment issues that face us all, keeping Solihull as the place to live, work and spend leisure time.”
Coun Sleigh will be taking on the cabinet member for resources role.
Coun Karen Grinsell will continue with the portfolio for adult social care and health but will also take on the role of deputy leader of the council.
Coun Ken Hawkins will take over the portfolio for environment and highways from Coun Ted Richards who has been appointed as cabinet member for growth and infrastructure delivery.
Conservative Stalwart Andy Mackiewicz is now cabinet member for climate change, planning and housing.
Coun Ken Meeson will stay on as cabinet member for children, education and skills.
Coun Alison Rolf is still the cabinet member for stronger and safer communities and Coun Joe Tildesley remains the cabinet member for tourism, leisure and sport.
Also at the meeting, Councillor Stuart Davis was elected as the new Mayor of Solihull for the municipal year.
Councillors expressed their appreciation to the retiring Mayor, Councillor Flo Nash, for the service she has provided to the borough during her term of office.
