A NEW era in Southend politics could see more councillors getting a say on the big decisions as a new coalition gets set to take power.
A coalition of Independent, Labour and Lib Dem councillors will seize power from the Tories on Southend Council tomorrow night and is already planning a major shake-up of the status quo.
Controversial plans to build a seawall in Shoebury, close libraries and shut care homes will all be reviewed, while the current cabinet system could also go in favour of a new committee system.
But who are the people behind the coalition? See a profile of the new leaders here:
While the new coalition ponders scrapping the cabinet system, it has appointed a new cabinet to take the Conservatives’ former hot-seats.
Ron Woodley: Independent councillor for Thorpe.
Role: Council leader and cabinet member for corporate services.
First elected: 2007.
Ian Gilbert: Labour group leader and councillor for Victoria.
Role: Deputy council leader and cabinet member for community support.
First elected: 2008.
Graham Longley: Lib Dem group leader and councillor for Blenheim Park.
Role: Deputy council leader and cabinet member for enterprise, tourism and economic regeneration.
First elected: 1983.
Martin Terry: Independent councillor for Thorpe and formerly Westborough.
Role: Independent group spokesperson and cabinet member for public protection, waste and transport.
First elected: 2003 (Westborough) and 2014 (Thorpe).
Anne Jones: Labour councillor for Kursaal.
Role: Cabinet member for children and learning.
First elected: 2012.
Mike Assenheim: Independent councillor for Shoebury.
Role: Cabinet member for regulatory control.
First elected: 2007.
David Norman: Labour councillor for Victoria.
Role: Cabinet member for adult social care and health and housing
First elected: 1965.
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