National role on industrial regeneration body for Bolsover district councillor
“We provide support for less prosperous areas, such as ex-coalfield areas like Bolsover district, and a better way to fund local growth.”
A Bolsover District Councillor has been appointed into a senior role within a body which lobbies for regeneration of former coalfields and industrial areas.
Councillor John Ritchie has been appointed as Vice-Chair (Midlands and South region) of the Industrial Communities Alliance.
Cllr Ritchie, who represents Ault Hucknall on the district council and is also the local authority’s Portfolio Holder for Devolution, will play an integral role in advocating in Westminster for policies, funding, and economic regeneration tailored to industrial, mining, and manufacturing communities.
His appointment was announced during the annual general meeting of the alliance in September, as well as during a recent full council meeting of Bolsover District Council, at which Steve Fothergill, the alliance’s national director, was a guest speaker.
Cllr Ritchie, who was previously a Treasurer with the alliance, said: “As a Vice-Chair, I get to examine policies and documents ahead of alliance meetings, or before they are sent to Government ministers.
“We can also influence policy and have a say on where funding is directed.
“We provide support for less prosperous areas, such as ex-coalfield areas like Bolsover district, and a better way to fund local growth.”