A NEW deputy leader for Wyre Forest District Council has been announced. 

Councillor Ben Brookes has been appointed to the role by the Leader of the council, councillor Marcus Hart.

Councillor Brookes takes over from councillor Ian Hardiman with the move announced on Friday May 3. 

Councillor Hardiman has served as Deputy Leader from May 2023 and had the same role from 2015 to 2019.

The deputy leader of the council is paid a special responsibility allowance of £8,920 a year in addition to the basic allowance that all members of the council receive.

Councillor Marcus Hart, Leader of the Council, said: “I am delighted to announce councillor Ben Brookes’ appointment to deputy leader, following unanimous agreement with the Conservative group on Wyre Forest District Council.

"I look forward to continuing working with him and driving forward the priorities in the council’s corporate plan.

“I would also like to pay tribute to and extend my thanks to councillor Ian Hardiman for his dedicated and diligent service in the role.

"He has been the deputy group leader for nine years and served five of them as deputy leader of the council.

"I have valued his support and counsel throughout, and I will be able to continue to draw on his experience as he will remain a member of my cabinet.”

Councillor Brookes was first elected to Wyre Forest District Council in a by-election for the Franche and Habberley North ward in June 2022.

He has been Cabinet Member for Operational Services since May 2023.