The Labour Leader of the Council, Cllr Nick Mannion, alongside the Labour Group, represents a strong and united team that will continue to play a central role in delivering the Council’s priorities. Labour councillors bring dedication, experience and a shared commitment to fairness, opportunity and putting residents first. As the Council moves forward under new governance arrangements, this creates fresh opportunities to better serve our communities — with renewed focus and a clear determination to deliver for people across Cheshire East. Cabinet leadership Labour councillors appointed to key cabinet roles include:
Leader of the Council and Public Health: Cllr Nick Mannion Finance, Legal and Enforcement: Cllr Dawn Clark Adult Social Care: Cllr Jill Rhodes, Cllr Sarah Bennett-Wake (Deputy) Children’s Services: Cllr Laura Crane
These roles will be vital in driving forward the council’s priorities, from safeguarding vital services to supporting families and strengthening our local economy. Committee Chairs and Vice-Chairs Labour councillors have also been appointed to a range of influential committee leadership positions, ensuring strong governance and accountability across the council: Committee Chairs:
Constitution Committee: Cllr Liz Braithwaite Strategic Planning Board: Cllr Brian Puddicombe Southern Planning Committee: Cllr Joy Bratherton Appointments Committee: Cllr Fiona Wilson
Committee Vice-Chairs:
Audit and Governance Committee: Cllr Brian Drake Northern Planning Committee: Cllr Fiona Wilson Licensing Committee: Cllr Carol Bulman
Overview and Scrutiny:
Children’s Overview and Scrutiny (Vice-Chair): Cllr Geoff Smith Place Overview and Scrutiny (Vice-Chair): Cllr Mary Brooks
Appointments to External Organisations
Cheshire Police and Crime Panel Cllr Judy Snowball Cheshire Fire Authority Cllr Laura crane, Cllr Geoff Smith, Cllr Rob Vernon Cheshire and Merseyside Integrated Care System Joint Health Scrutiny Committee Cllr Marilyn Houston Cheshire and Warrington Combined Authority Audit and Governance Committee, Cllr Sam Corcoran, Cllr Brian Drake (substitute) Cheshire and Warrington Combined Authority Overview and Scrutiny Committee, Cllr Martin Edwards, Cllr Geoff Smith (substitute) Peak national Park Authority, Cllr Fiona Wilson
Working together for Cheshire East These appointments reflect the depth and strength of Labour’s team across the borough, with councillors stepping forward to lead on the issues that matter most to residents. From planning and infrastructure to governance and scrutiny, Labour councillors will be at the heart of decision‑making, ensuring the council is accountable, effective and focused on delivering real change. Council Leader Cllr Nick Mannion said: “We are proud to have such a strong and committed team in place for the year ahead. Together, we will work tirelessly to support our communities, protect vital services and build a fairer future for everyone in Cheshire East.” Looking ahead As the new civic year begins, Labour councillors are united in their determination to:
Strengthen public services Support working people and families Protect the most vulnerable Deliver sustainable growth and opportunity
