THE leader of Cotswold District Council has unveiled a reshaped leadership team.

Councillor Joe Harris has revealed the reshuffled cabinet to drive forward the organisation’s top priorities.

According to the council, the newly-appointed, seven-member cabinet will save local taxpayers around £8,000 a year while delivering on key commitments.

This change follows the decision by Councillor Lisa Spivey to step back from her cabinet role and Councillor Tony Dale’s decision to focus on his recovery following a recent car accident.

Cllr Harris extended his gratitude for the pair’s hard work and dedication.

“We’re immensely grateful to Lisa and Tony for their commitment and many achievements,” he said.

“Lisa has overseen the development of hundreds of affordable homes for local people and has taken a strong stand in holding water companies to account on the sewage scandal affecting our community.

“Tony has driven our economic growth strategy, creating 500 new jobs in the district.

“We look forward to welcoming him back to the cabinet once he’s fully recovered.”

CDC said that the newly-structured cabinet is designed to bring fresh perspectives and renewed focus to essential council priorities.

These include ensuring that there is an infrastructure-first approach to new development, that more genuinely-affordable homes are delivered, that new jobs are created in the district and that residents are supported through the current cost of living crisis.

The cabinet roles are now as follows:

  • Leader - Joe Harris
  • Deputy leader and cabinet member for finance and transformation - Mike Evemy
  • Climate change and sustainability - Mike McKeown
  • Housing and planning - Juliet Layton
  • Economy and environment - Tristan Wilkinson
  • Communities - Claire Bloomer
  • Health, culture and visitor experience - Paul Hodgkinson

Cllr Harris welcomed new cabinet member Councillor Tristan Wilkinson, who has experience in helping organisations improve.

“This team combines a wealth of experience with fresh energy,” said Cllr Harris.

“This streamlined cabinet means we’re laser-focused on our key priorities and ensures that every decision reflects our mission to make the Cotswolds an even better place to live, work and visit.”