Press Release: Lib Dems join forces with R4GV in new co-operative approach to running Guildford Borough Council

Guildford Liberal Democrats are pleased to announce a new co-operative approach to running Guildford Borough Council.

The news was announced by Liberal Democrat Leader of the Council, Cllr Caroline Reeves, at tonight's meeting of the Full Council. The eight-person Executive is now divided equally between the Liberal Democrats and Residents for Guildford and Villages (R4GV).

Each of the eight councillors will lead a reshaped portfolio which reflects the Council's Future Guildford transformation programme and the emerging themes of the new Corporate Plan which will be announced soon.

Leader of Council Caroline Reeves explained the reasons for the change:

"Following a successful year of working together, we are pleased to join forces with R4GV under this new leadership model. These unprecedented times we find ourselves in mean we must make best use of our shared strengths to serve our borough. I am proud of the work carried out by the previous Executive (2019-2020). Much has been achieved, often quietly, and we are looking forward to building on this with our ambitious plans for the future of Guildford alongside R4GV.

"I would like to take this opportunity to thank Cllrs Fiona White, David Goodwin, Angela Goodwin and Pauline Searle from the Liberal Democrats who are standing down, for all of their work - the results we have achieved for the people of Guildford would not have been possible without them.

"I also want to thank our residents. We are all so grateful how they have continued to follow government guidance and stay home to protect our NHS and save lives since lock-down began in March. The community spirit that has been shown has been incredible. While all of our lives have changed considerably, as a local authority our vulnerable groups remain our priority during this time. If you or someone you know in Guildford needs food, help with medicine or support please visit our website and get in touch as we can help. We are also dedicated to supporting our local economy and so far we have provided £15.745 million in business grants to 1,154 firms in the borough."

Notes to Editors

Cllr Caroline Reeves remains Council Leader.

Guildford Borough Council's Executive portfolios are now aligned closely with the new directorate structure which reflects the Council's Future Guildford transformation programme which began in 2019.

The New Executive Roles by Directorate

1. Services: Corporate Themes - Climate Change and Environment, Housing and Communities

• Climate Change - Cllr Jan Harwood (Lib Dem)
• Environment - Cllr James Steel (Lib Dem)
• Housing & Development Control - Cllr Caroline Reeves (Lib Dem)
• Community - Cllr Julia McShane (Lib Dem)

2. Resource: Corporate Theme - Improved Council

• Resources - Cllr Tim Anderson (R4GV)
• Service Delivery - Cllr Joss Bigmore (R4GV)

3. Strategy: Corporate Theme - Economy and Regeneration

• Economy - Cllr John Redpath (R4GV)
• Regeneration - Cllr John Rigg (R4GV)