A new committee to strengthen regional working across mid Wales has held its inaugural meeting.
The Mid Wales Corporate Joint Committee is one of four being established across Wales by the Welsh Government. The aim is to strengthen local democracy and accountability by integrating decision making in three key areas.
The committee includes the Leaders of Ceredigion County Council, Powys County Council, Chairman of the Bannau Brycheiniog National Park Authority (for planning matters), and senior representatives from their organisations.
Several appointments were made at the first meeting on Tuesday (January 25). Cllr Ellen ap Gwynn, Leader of Ceredigion County Council has been elected chair for the next 12 months. Cllr Rosemarie Harris, Leader of Powys County Council, has been elected vice-chair.
Dr Caroline Turner, Chief Executive of Powys County Council, will carry out the committee’s Chief Executive duties for the first year of operation.
Cllr Ellen ap Gwynn, said: “The Mid Wales Corporate Joint Committee will build on the strong partnership arrangements already in place in our region. We look forward to working closely together to benefit our collective residents and businesses.”
The committee has been tasked with the development of regional transport, strategic development plans and improving economic wellbeing.
The Corporate Joint Committees are being introduced by the Local Government and Elections (Wales) Act 2021.