Council unveils new look cabinet after departure of former leader Iain Malcolm

Mr Malcolm resigned not only as leader but as a councillor last week and has quit the Labour Party.

Councillor Tracey Dixon has taken over as leader and has now confirmed seven cabinet positions.

Coun Joan Atkinson has adopted the role of Deputy Leader and also holds the portfolio of Culture and Leisure.

Joining the new Leader and Deputy Leader are:

Coun John Anglin, Lead Member for Regeneration and Economy

Coun Joanne Bell, Lead Member for Resources and Innovation

Coun Ernest Gibson, Lead Member for Area Management and Community Safety

Coun Anne Hetherington, Lead Member for Independence and Wellbeing

Coun Moira Smith, Lead Member for Children, Young People and Families

Coun Mark Walsh, Lead Member for Housing and Transport

The Cabinet portfolio of Voluntary Sector, Partnerships and Co-operatives is vacant at this time.

Coun Dixon said: “As the new Leader of the Council, I have assembled a Cabinet that combines different knowledge and skill sets, with a consistent approach that places residents at the forefront of decision making.

"I have appointed members based on their previous experience in Cabinet or who have held a senior role in other Committees of the Council. All new Cabinet Members have significant experience in driving and delivering positive change.

“While it is important that the Council and Cabinet has stability at this time, I am excited about the fresh approach my colleagues will bring to new challenges. At the top of our agenda is a commitment to support our residents and businesses through the challenges presented by the Coronavirus pandemic.

“I have at this time retained one vacancy. The work of the Partnerships, Voluntary Sector and Co-operatives portfolio will be incorporated into the other Cabinet portfolios until such a time that we can consider where to refocus and strengthen support to South Tyneside’s communities.

“I am grateful to outgoing members for their contribution to the Cabinet in recent years. I also welcome new members to the Cabinet and I’m delighted by their eagerness to bring a fresh approach to today’s challenges.”

The new cabinet roles will commence with immediate effect.

A Message from the Editor

Support your Gazette and become a subscriber today. Enjoy unlimited access to local news, the latest football stories and new puzzles every day. With a digital subscription, you can see fewer ads, enjoy faster load times, and get access to exclusive newsletters and content. Click here to subscribe.