WYRE Forest District Council leader, Marcus Hart, has unveiled a new member of his cabinet.

Cllr Hart has appointed Councillor Tracey Onslow as cabinet member for planning and economic regeneration from Friday (May 13).

She replaces Councillor John-Paul Campion who has resigned with effect from tomorrow (May 12) on taking up his role as Police and Crime Commissioner for West Mercia.

Cllr Hart said: “I am delighted to appoint Tracey Onslow to my cabinet.

“Her business and previous cabinet experience will stand her in good stead in taking on the responsibilities of the post, and she has a strong knowledge of planning and economic regeneration issues.

“There are several important regeneration projects which Tracey will now lead, such as the Kidderminster Eastern Gateway and the redevelopment of the site of Crown House.

“I would also like to pay tribute to John-Paul Campion, who served the district council in a succession of cabinet roles since 2004, including as leader from 2007 to 2014.

“He demonstrated throughout his commitment and passion to Wyre Forest.

“I valued his wise counsel when I became leader in 2014, and I have accepted his resignation with a heavy heart.

“My cabinet colleagues and I will miss John’s contribution to our discussions. We wish him well in his important new role as Police and Crime Commissioner, and look forward to a positive working relationship with him.”

Cllr Onslow represented the Sutton Park ward on the district council between 2007 and May 2015 and was elected to represent the Blakebrook and Habberley South ward in a by-election in September 2015.

She was previously a member of the cabinet between 2008 and 2012.