David Meller has been elected the new Leader of the Stockport Labour Group. Stockport born-and-bred, Cllr Meller was first elected in 2018 in the old Cheadle Hulme North ward. He was re-elected last week in the new Cheadle East and Cheadle Hulme North ward, securing a much-prized four-year term.
David represents Stockport on the Transport for Greater Manchester Committee and under the last Labour administration served as Cabinet Member for Economy and Regeneration, helping lead on Stockport town centre’s current transformation.
Following Tom McGee’s decision to step down from his Heaton South seat, Christine Carrigan has been named as Labour’s new Deputy Leader. Cllr Carrigan was first elected for the Stepping Hill Ward and following boundary changes was successfully elected in Brinnington and Central Stockport Ward last Thursday, securing a four-year term.
Speaking following his appointment, Cllr Meller said:
“It is an honour to lead the Labour Group in Stockport. Last week’s results are a great foundation for Stockport Labour to build on. We have challenged and beat the Lib Dems in their heartlands and now have councillors in every constituency across the borough.
“Stockport Labour will continue to stand up for residents during this cost of living crisis – having already secured an expansion of free school meals – as well as push to ensure Stockport’s regeneration extends to all areas of the borough. We will also do everything to ensure that as a council, we get the basic services right and deliver for Council Taxpayers.
“My cabinet, whether leading the council or scrutinising the work of another administration, will tackle the issues Stockport residents face head on and we will be a presence within every area of Stockport, working for local people.”
Following last week’s election in Stockport, no single party controls a majority. The Liberal Democrats have the most seats at 30, followed by Labour with 24 and Edgeley Community Association, Green Party, and Heald Green Ratepayers all holding 3.