New council leader to focus on reviving Rugby town centre - The Rugby Observer

New council leader to focus on reviving Rugby town centre

Rugby Editorial 16th May, 2019   0

A NEW leader of Rugby Borough Council has been elected.

Coun Seb Lowe, who represents Coton and Boughton Ward, was elected at the council’s Annual General Meeting this morning (May 16) – replacing Coun Michael Stokes who has stepped down after five years in the role due to new work committments.

In a speech to the meeting, Coun Lowe told councillors he intended to focus resources on supporting Rugby’s town centre by using policies in the council’s emerging Local Plan, and partnership work with Rugby First and other organisations.

Speaking afterwards, Coun Lowe said: “It is a privilege to lead the borough council, and I look forward to meeting the challenges that the role will bring.




“We have experienced and motivated councillors from all parties, and I hope that we will all be able to work together and do what is right for Rugby.

“With excellent, professional officers who share that passion for doing the best we can, I am sure that we will be able to work together and deliver for the people of Rugby.”


Coun Lowe has appointed Coun Derek Poole as the new Deputy Leader, and has made some changes to the Cabinet.

Coun Jill Simpson-Vince takes on Coun Lowe’s previous portfolio of Growth and Investment.

Coun Howard Roberts will take over the Environment and Public Realm role vacated by Coun Lisa Parker, who is currently suspended from the ruling Conservative group for ‘bringing the party into disrepute’ – which she attributes to her criticism of the Government’s handling of Brexit.

Coun Emma Crane and Coun Carolyn Robbins retain their positions as respective portfolio holders for Communities and Homes and for Corporate Resources.

Coun Stokes will remain as a ward councillor for Admirals and Cawston.

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