A LONG-SERVING councillor has been elected as the new leader of Rugby Borough Council (RBC) and its Conservative Group.
Coun Derek Poole, who has represented Wolston and the Lawfords for 20 years, was elected council leader at RBC’s Annual Council meeting today (Thursday May 18).
He replaces former council leader Seb Lowe, who lost his Coton and Boughton seat to Labour’s Coun Senthil Periasamy in the Local Elections earlier this month.
A former police officer, Coun Poole has represented Rugby at the Police and Crime Panel, working with the Warwickshire Police and Crime Commissioner.
He said: “I know that this year will be very challenging, but I want us all to work together for the good of the residents of Rugby and the villages and parishes we represent.
“There are 42 councillors, and we all want the best for our communities. Whilst I know that we will have our differences, I hope that we will be able to come together on some of the opportunities we have to make the Borough of Rugby an even better place to live, work and raise a family.
“I am also committed to improving and protecting the green and open spaces that make Rugby so special.”
Coun Poole retains his previous role as Portfolio Holder for Regulation and Safety, while also taking on the Change and Transformation portfolio.
He has appointed new Deputy Leader Coun Ian Picker, who also retains his role as Portfolio Holder for Growth and Investment.
Coun Carolyn Robbins retains her role as Portfolio Holder for Finance, Performance, Legal and Governance.
Coun Adam Daly has been appointed Portfolio Holder for Leisure and Wellbeing, Coun Tim Willis becomes Portfolio Holder for Communities, Homes, Digital and Communications, and Coun Carolyn Watson-Merret has been appointed Portfolio Holder for Operations and Traded Services.
RBC is currently under no overall control after Labour took two seats from the Conservatives in the Local Elections.
The Conservatives remain the largest party with 21 councillors.
