Political leaders in Burntwood say they are keen to usher in a “new era of cooperation”.
Both Labour and Conservatives have new leaders at Burntwood Town Council following the local elections, which saw the reds take power from the blues.
But despite their political differences, both parties say they are committed to creating a modern council.
The controlling Labour group has already opted to reduce the number of committees in a bid to cut bureaucracy.
The council’s new leader, Cllr Sue Woodward, said: “With all of the recent changes at both the town and district councils, we have a real opportunity to make a step change in Burntwood.
“I’m genuinely excited about the possibilities to make a difference and am really pleased that I’ve had very positive responses from the Conservative group.
“There’s a great deal of good will that we should all pull together for the benefit of the town and I’m very optimistic for the next four years.”
A new five-point plan for the council has been drawn up to ensure that it is:
- an effective community voice
- an outward-looking council that focusses on the issues that affect Burntwood and its residents
- a council that is ambitious for the town,
- an enabling council that engages with residents and community groups and focusses on priorities
- a consensual council that recognises different opinions and develops a positive tone and culture, internally and externally.
New Conservative opposition leader, Cllr Robin Place, said: ”On behalf of the Conservative group of councillors we will look towards a new era of cooperation with our Labour colleagues.
“We will look at working together for the betterment of everyone who lives and works in Burntwood.
“Although we have political differences we will support the Labour administration and vote in favour of proposals that we feel benefit Burntwood.
“We need to look forward, not backwards, forget what happened in the past and see what we can all do for Burntwood.”
The comments come after the chairman of the previous Conservative-led town council hit out at “a lack of support” during her time in the role during the previous administration.