As part of the Local Plan process advice has been sought from Queen’s Counsel which has confirmed that it is no longer legally appropriate for the Deputy Leader to also fulfil a position as one of the Council’s Directors on the Wirral Growth Company LLP due to a technical conflict between the respective roles. As a result, it is required that there is a change in the Council’s representative as a Director of the Wirral Growth Company LLP as a matter of urgency.

Resolved – That the Deputy Leader of the Council (presently Councillor Anita Leech) be removed as a Director of the Wirral Growth Company LLP and be replaced by the Cabinet portfolio holder for Children, Families and Education (presently Councillor Tom Usher).

Other options considered. Not removing the Deputy Leader as a Director of the Wirral Growth Company LLP. This would not be in accordance with the Council’s duty to follow good governance processes.