New regeneration boss appointed for Dudley borough

Former cabinet member and Mayor, Councillor David Stanley, has been appointed as the new lead for regeneration and enterprise which will put him in charge of major projects including the Midland Metro Extension.

He replaces Councillor Simon Phipps, who has stepped down from the top role for personal reasons.

Councillor Patrick Harley, leader of Dudley Council, said: "Councillor Stanley is a highly thought of and respected councillor of many years standing who has served in a senior position for the authority before.

"He has a wealth of knowledge and experience, which I’ve asked him to bring to this role as part of my reshuffle of the cabinet.

"The billion-pound regeneration of our borough is ongoing and is in a really good place and I am confident it will be in safe hands with Councillor Stanley.

"Finally, I would like to pay thanks to Councillor Simon Phipps, who served in the cabinet during the last four years and wish him well in the future."

Cllr Simon Phipps (Image: Dudley Council)

Cllr Phipps said: "I have enjoyed this role immensely, however, I can no longer meet the time commitments required to carry out those duties alongside my employment whilst also dedicating enough time to my residents in Belle Vale. It is they who elected me, and so they must be my priority. Therefore, I have stood down from the cabinet.

"I am hugely proud of the progress we have made. In particular, I am delighted to see our new and improved leisure centres open for business once again, including in Halesowen. I'm also hugely proud that we have finally got the ball rolling in buying and knocking down the derelict shops in Colley Gate too and I hope to see those buildings in council ownership, and demolished, soon.

"I wish my successor, Cllr David Stanley, the very best of success.

"I will now devote my time on the council to serving the residents of Belle Vale and the town of Halesowen to the very best of my ability."