Minutes:
The Leader of the Council reported that the Chief Officer Appointments Committee had made a permanent appointment to the post of Corporate Director, Resources, John Hewitt. Many members would be familiar with Mr Hewitt as he had previously worked for County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Authority.
Ian Thompson and Lorraine O’Donnell had commenced their new roles of Corporate Director Regeneration and Local Services and Director of Transformation and Partnerships.
The process of appointing to permanent positions for the Corporate Director of Adult and Health Services and Corporate Director of Children and Young People’s Services had commenced.
The Leader of the Council reported that there were a number of world class events taking place around County Durham and he had had the privilege of attending the following:-
· Kynren in Bishop Auckland – a visually stunning look at County Durham
· Shoes - a Pleasure/ Pain Exhibition at Bowes Museum
· Flying Scotsman visiting the Locomotion Museum in Shildon
· Open Treasure Exhibition at Durham Cathedral
· 1916 – No Turning Back at the Gala Theatre, Durham
· Somme Exhibition at the Palace Green, Durham
· Durham City Run
· Brass Festival 1916
He added that there was a huge amount of events taking place and that we should be very proud of the County.
The Leader of the Council reported that EU Referendum outcome had been felt at national level with a change in the Prime Minister and Cabinet. He said that this was an unstable period but emphasised the real need for everyone to come together.
Leaving the EU may have a major impact on County Durham but amongst the uncertainty the Combined Authority would be seeking assurances on part of the devolution deal and would continue to do so, seeking a commitment beyond 2020
He informed the Council that regeneration and economic development would remain a priority with efforts being doubled as we work successfully with the new government and that we should remain ambitious moving forward.