A Burntwood councillor says the election of a new leader shows the Conservatives are ready to move forward.

Cllr Doug Pullen has replaced Cllr Mike Wilcox who has led Lichfield District Council for more than ten years.

Cllr Wai-Lee Ho, who was elected alongside Cllr Pullen in the Highfields ward, said the change was significant for the area.

Cllr Wai-Lee Ho

“It’s a sign that local Conservatives are ready to move forward,” he said.

“I spent a lot of time with Doug Pullen during our canvassing and it’s clear we share the same aspirations for Burntwood and the whole district.”

Cllr Wilcox’s departure from the top job is likely to signal a significant change in approach to a number of local issues, such as a solution to the failed Friarsgate redevelopment.

But Cllr Ho believes the former leader still has a part to play in the future of the district.

He said: “It can’t be denied that Cllr Wilcox is a dedicated public servant and is still a great asset to the district.”

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