First session of West Berkshire Council since the Liberal Democrats took control in the local council elections in early May, has been held

“We go into the new administration with hope.”

The first session of West Berkshire Council since the local council elections in early May, sat last night (Thursday).

The Liberal Democrats, now firmly in charge with 29 of the 43 seats, grasped the talking stick with a pledge to improve the district – and Jeff Brooks (Lib Dem, Thatcham West) proposed Lee Dillon (Thatcham North East) as the strong leader of the council.

Mr Brooks said: “We are quite excited.

"I’ve known Lee Dillon since he was 15. He stood in my dining room telling me how to be a politician.

"He was right actually.

"He is fiercely dedicated to doing a good job for the people of West Berkshire.

"He is reasonable, inclusive and respectful. He will put his points without theatrics.

"He will be a great benefit to this council.”

In his opening statement, the new leader said his team had been busy working with officers already, promising a new strategy for the future of West Berkshire in the coming weeks.

“Football is already coming back to Faraday Road after five years of it sitting idle,” he said.

“Improvements in planning are being explored and we are trying to get on top of those potholes.

“We can and will involve more councillors from different parties in this process. Let’s stand with each other free from party influence.

“Let’s focus on improving West Berkshire. We go into the new administrations with hope.

"But there are challenges in adult social care and children’s services and the rate of greening our district needs to go quicker.

“The motto of WBC is forward together. Let’s keep that in mind and improve our district.”

Ross MacKinnon (Con, Bradfield), the new Tory group leader, offered his congratulations, and shook the hand of the incoming leader, but promised to be a robust opposition.

“We are all here to do our bit for West Berkshire and do the best for our residents," he said. "But we will be watching you.”

Jeremy Cottam (Lib Dem, Thatcham North East) was voted in as chairman of West Berkshire Council.

He was seconded by Heather Codling (Lib Dem, Chieveley and Cold Ash), who said: “He is always happy to offer help, has vast experience as a councillor on both district and town council.

"He will be an excellent representative for the district in this civic role.”

Thanking the chamber, Mr Cottam said: “It's an exciting time to be in a new council."

Billy Drummond (Lib Dem, Newbury Greenham) was voted in as vice chairman.