THE historic first ever meeting of the newly formed Kidderminster Town Council has been held this week.

Councillors representing the six wards of Kidderminster met today (December 1) to kick-start the new dawn for democracy in the town.

Members spoke of their joy at finally establishing the new authority, which came after years of campaigning before residents voted overwhelmingly in favour of its creation in a Local Advisory Poll in May.

Campaigners have been battling for more than 40 years to have a separate authority for the town – similar to ones in Stourport and Bewdley – since Kidderminster borough was incorporated into Wyre Forest District Council in 1974.

The new authority will take on budget responsibilities, including setting the council tax rate for Kidderminster, and has had assets including the Town Hall, public toilets and war memorial transferred over.

At the first meeting, councillors formally adopted the name of Kidderminster Town Council, appointed members to committees and approved one off costs of £30,250 to set up the authority.

They also agreed to start the recruitment process for a new Town Clerk and Responsible Financial Officer, who could be taken on in part-time or full-time role.

Kidderminster Mayor Rose Bishop, who chaired the meeting, said: “Today is a historic moment in the governance of Kidderminster. We are turning a new page for the town.”

Long-standing Kidderminster councillor Fran Oborski said: “For someone who has campaigned for this for 41 years, this is a fantastic day.

“It has been a long road and we owe a debt of gratitude to everyone who has worked hard to achieve this and the people of Kidderminster for putting their trust in us.”

Labour Leader Nigel Knowles added: “Irrespective of political differences, this is a new start and we all want to push this forward. It is a proud day for Kidderminster.

“There is a lot for us to do, particularly in terms of creating jobs and improving wages for people on the lowest pay, so it will be great to be back to how we were before 1974.

Health Concern’s Graham Ballinger said: “Let’s hope we can make a real difference to the town as there is much that needs to be done.

“We are putting a lot of faith into this and it has been a big effort. The public has been overwhelming with their support of us.”

The Kidderminster ward councillors will sit until local elections are held in May next year.