Participation At Council Panels And Committees

With the exception of the July Council Meeting when I was in London on official business, I have attended all meetings of Full Council this municipal year.

Once again I have served as Chair of the Resources and Sustainable Communities Scrutiny Panel. The Panel has the responsibility for considering matters relating to corporate policies, strategies and governance, resource planning, election development, human resources and legal services. It also deals with community based policies, including the Tameside Strategic Partnership, District Assemblies and sport, recreational and cultural policies, including sport and leisure provision made by, or on behalf of the Council. This year we have completed a review on Procurement to add value to the Council’s continuing efforts to provide Best Value services and achieve efficiency savings.

The Panel has also undertaken a review of the civil contingency provision in the Borough and learning and development for elected members following a recommendation from the Standards Committee.

I have also served on the Overview (Audit) and Energy Panels and the Licensing Panel, which has dealt with applications from pubs, clubs, etc, to update/alter their licences to sell alcohol.

Participation on Outside Bodies and Partnerships

I have represented the Authority on the Greater Manchester Passenger Transport Executive, where I have been a member of the Policy and Network Committee.

Participation at District Assemblies

I have continued to be a member of the Denton and Audenshaw District Assembly and have attended the majority of meetings in this municipal year.

Constituency Work

I have dealt with many cases during the year to help and offer advice to constituents in my Ward and I have continued to work closely with our MP on constituency matters.

I have held numerous meetings with the Town Manager and Council officers and have conducted several site visits to clarify areas of concern.

The Denton West Labour Councillors also put out regular newsletters to keep residents up to date with local issues.

I have also attended many residents meetings, public meetings and community events.

Achievements During the Year

In addition to my work with my Ward colleagues and local residents, I have had the great honour of being Civic Mayor of Tameside this year. It has been a very busy and rewarding time. I have worked hard and have done my best to be a good ambassador for the Council. Since my inauguration in May, I have attended over 400 engagements. Each event has been different and special in its own way and I can honestly say I have enjoyed them all. 

I have met many people from all walks of life and have enjoyed meeting residents from across Tameside. I have especially enjoyed my work to raise money for the Mayor’s Charity which has been dedicated to helping smaller charities and voluntary organisations based within the Borough.

Members' Surgeries

I believe it is important for local Councillors to always be available to the electorate. With my Ward colleagues, I have continued to hold weekend surgeries at either the St George's Centre in Dane Bank or at Denton Town Hall every Saturday. We have also conducted evening surgeries at Denton West End Community Centre every Tuesday, unless it coincides with Full Council. The surgeries continue to be well-attended and are vital in providing a link between the Council and the community.
I have been proud to represent the people of Denton West on Tameside Council throughout the year and, with their continued support, I hope to carry on working for them for many years to come.