New Lib Dem Councillor Joins Executive to be Lead Member for Climate Change

Published on: 9 Dec, 2021
Updated on: 11 Dec, 2021

Cllr Cait Taylor

The expected reshuffle of the Executive Committee at Guildford Borough Council in the wake of Cllr Jan Harwood’s move to the Conservative group has eventually been confirmed this week, but sees only one major change.

Cllr Cait Taylor comes in as the new Lead Councillor for Climate Change and is the only addition.

See also: My Application for My Old Job

Cllr Julia McShane

Within her portfolio, she is also responsible for Air Quality, Innovation and Sustainable Transport. Confirmation was given formally at the full council meeting on Tuesday, December 7 by deputy leader of the council, Cllr Julia McShane who was standing in for the isolating leader Joss Bigmore.

Cllr Bigmore (R4GV, Christchurch) said: “I am confident that the changes we have made to this Executive will benefit Guildford. It has given us the opportunity to look at where we are now and how we can better serve the people and businesses of Guildford.

Cllr Joss Bigmore

“Last month Cllr McShane [Lib Dem, Westborough] stepped in as deputy leader of the council, while continuing to be lead councillor for Community and Housing. I have enjoyed working with her and seeing the care she has for our communities. She now adds human resources to her portfolio area.

“Cllr Cait Taylor was elected as a councillor for Friary & St Nicolas ward in May, filling the seat that Caroline Reeves left. They were big boots to fill but she has made a brilliant start, already being substituted onto several committees.

“Given the importance of the climate change portfolio, we have taken our time and considered a number of options. We are excited about the contribution Cait will bring given her passion and dedication in this area.

“I have added Strategic Planning to my portfolio and other Executive Councillors will pick up aspects of Service Delivery to allow me to give the attention that planning strategy needs.

“I look forward to working with Cllr Taylor and the Executive will continue our work to put the interests of our communities first. We are confident we will become a greener borough with a renewed, thriving economy, coming together to support our communities and most vulnerable residents.”

Councillor Cait Taylor said: “I felt very privileged to be elected as the borough councillor for Friary & St Nicolas ward in Guildford, and now even more so to be able to take on this role and make a real difference for Guildford and our planet. I will be working hard to make sure that pollution is kept to a minimum and we can reach our 2030 carbon neutral target for the health of all residents.”

The Guildford Dragon is to invite Cllr Cait Taylor for an interview.

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