Leader of Leeds City Council Councillor Judith Blake has been announced as the new chair of Core Cities UK.
Councillor Blake takes over from Sir Richard Leese, leader of Manchester City Council, who has been chair of the 10-city strong group for the last three-and-a-half years, since the formation of its political cabinet which has driven through a host of new policies for cities - including devolution.
Leader of Leeds City Council and the new chair of Core Cities UK Councillor Judith Blake said:
"It's a privilege to take over from Richard and I'd like to thank him for all the hard work. He has led the group with distinction and vision, helping us to develop new thinking that has changed the landscape of national policy for the better and has had significant impact across government.
"All the Core Cities face particular challenges as we enter a post-Brexit world. Our job is to come together to create a vision for a better, more inclusive UK where cities continue to drive social and economic progress."
Sir Richard Leese added:
"My time as chair of Core Cities UK has seen the group play a key role in legislation, for example the Cities and Local Government Devolution Bill, and establishing our network as a key player across parties and parliament. We have demonstrated that cities are vital not only to the UK economy, but to social cohesion.
“I am delighted to hand over to Judith and I will make sure that Manchester continues to play a key role in the group over the years ahead."
Core Cities UK is a unique and united local authority voice to promote the role of cities in driving economic growth and the case for city devolution.
It represents the councils of England’s eight largest city economies outside London along with Glasgow and Cardiff.
Working in partnership, Core Cities UK aims to enable each City to enhance economic performance and make them better places to live, work, visit and do business.
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