New leader steps up on Audlem Parish Council

A new chairman has been voted in at Audlem Parish Council

Former teacher, Phillip Johnson, takes over from Kate Down who has held the post for four years.

Mr Johnson's former position as vice chairman will be taken by Heather Jones.

Mr Johnson told the Annual General Meeting of Audlem Parish Council his main aim in the new role was to improve the profile of the council.

He said: "We have to work together as a team for the good of the community but our profile in the village has got to be higher."

Mr Johnson certainly takes over at a challenging time for Audlem parish councillors.

Top of the agenda is the battle against plans to build 120 new houses on the outskirts of the village which sparked a public outcry earlier this year.

There are also ambitious plans to adopt the village playing fields, tennis courts, children's playground and possibly the village car park.

But Mrs Down has handed over the reins at a time when there is plenty of cash in the council's coffers and a very experienced team around the council table.

Mrs Down will remain on the parish council with special responsibility for wildlife and ecology.

Councillor Richard Furber paid tribute to Mrs Down's years in the top seat.

"I would personally like to thank Kate for her excellent work over the past four years," he said;

Before emerging as council chairman Mr Johnson had special council responsibility for planning matters, a role he will continue to play.

Mr Johnson was a secondary school teacher for 32 years, mainly in Crewe, before he retired. He has lived in Audlem with his family for more than 25 years.

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