I am a resident of Droylsden and I have represented Droylsden West Ward as an Elected Member of Tameside Metropolitan Borough Council for the past 17 years. 

Participation at Council Meetings and Panels

I have continued this year as Chair of the Joint Overview Panel. The panel acts as a link between the Executive and Scrutiny to provide a constant rolling review of Council activities. The panel also overviews the Council’s best value programme and budget and has an important role in forward business planning for the Council’s agenda.

I also Chair the Audit Panel. This panel provides independent assurance of the adequacy of the risk management framework and the associated control environment, independent scrutiny of the Authority’s financial and non financial performance to the extent that it affects the Authority’s exposure to risk and weaken the control environment and to oversee the financial reporting process.
I am a Member of the newly formed Energy Panel, which has been set up to monitor Council activities to reduce energy consumption and the related carbon emissions i.e. switching lights and equipment off when not in use. The Council has developed and adopted a Carbon Management Strategy, which outlines the actions it will undertake over the coming years.

Participation at District Assemblies

I am a member of Droylsden District Assembly. This involves a regular programme of “open forums” which are held every 7 weeks in local schools, church halls and community rooms, commencing at 6.30pm and usually terminating at 7.45pm. Members of the public can raise issues of concern within the local community directly to Councillors and officers. I have specific responsibility for environmental issues.

Participation on Outside Bodies and Partnerships

I represent the Council on the Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Authority, where I sit on the finance Committee and General Authority Committee. I have also attended several training seminars on behalf of the Authority.

Constituency Work

I hold 3 advice surgeries per month with my Ward colleagues at various venues in the area, where I deal with a great variety of complaints from local residents. I also meet regularly with local tenants, residents and Homewatch groups to discuss issues of concern.

Training and Development

In addition to the training provided by Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Authority, I have also attended various training sessions which have been offered as part of the Members Development Programme.

Achievements during the Year

I am pleased that the new swimming pool at Medlock Street is going from strength to strength. It also has a multi use sports complex, a gym and five-a-side football facilities. I am really excited that the Metrolink will come to Droylsden and the environmental centre at Ash Road depot will be up and running next year.