Details of the New Council Leader and new Council Chairman
Mole Valley District Council (MVDC) announces the appointment of its new Cabinet, led by Councillor Bridget Kendrick as the Leader.
Supporting the Leader is Councillor Claire Malcomson, who will serve as Deputy Leader and lead the Climate portfolio. The Cabinet also includes:
Councillor Rosemary Hobbs – Waste, Recycling and Environmental Health
Councillor Andrew Matthews – Finance
Councillor Keira Vyvyan-Robinson – Commercial Assets and Projects
Councillor Nick Wright – Leisure and Community Assets
Councillor Caroline Joseph – Services and Security
Councillor Bradley Nelson – Planning and Infrastructure
Councillor Paula Keay – Sustainable Economy
The Cabinet will be responsible for delivering MVDC’s key priorities, including the implementation of the Annual Plan and Corporate Strategy, as well as overseeing areas such as governance, emergency planning, community safety, climate change action, housing, economic development, and community wellbeing.
Councillor Bridget Kendrick, Leader of MVDC said: “I am honoured to take on the role of the Leader of MVDC at such a pivotal time. Our new Cabinet is united in its commitment to delivering the Council Strategy and ensuring that residents, businesses and communities in Mole Valley can thrive. The next two years will be crucial for ensuring we’ll get things right for Mole Valley during the Local Government Reorganisation to protect its’ heritage, identity and interests among the wider Surrey councils.
I would also like to take this opportunity to thank Councillor Stephen Cooksey for his outstanding service to Mole Valley and its residents. As the longest-serving Leader in the district’s history, Stephen played a pivotal role in delivering some of our most significant projects, including the Local Plan, the Dorking and Bookham Masterplans, and the Service Transformation programme. It is a privilege to take the reins and lead MVDC at this landmark point in its history.”
More details on the new Cabinet appointments and portfolios can be found on MVDC website.
Mole Valley District Council (MVDC) is pleased to announce the appointment of Councillor Roger Adams as the new Chairman and Councillor Simon Budd as the new Vice Chairman, following confirmation at the Annual Council Meeting.
The Chairman of the Council plays a vital ceremonial and civic role, acting as the official representative of MVDC at public events and functions. While the position is politically neutral, the Chairman is a key figure in promoting community cohesion and upholding the values of the Council. Responsibilities include presiding over MVDC’s meetings, representing MVDC at formal occasions, and supporting local initiatives and charities.
The Vice Chairman supports the Chairman in these duties and steps in when the Chairman is unavailable, ensuring continuity and representation across the district.
With regard to the Ashtead Independent Councillors, Chris Hunt remains as Group Leader and Leader of the Opposition. Mary Cooper is the Deputy Leader of the Opposition.
Gerry Sevenoaks is Chairman of the Scrutiny Committee and Andy Smith is the Vice Chairman.
Mary Cooper is the Chairman of the Audit Committee.
Independent Councillors are also on various working groups and other committees, but these are the main ones.