Coun Steve Galloway congratulates his successor, Coun Andrew Waller
THE new leader of the largest party on City of York Council says he will make "significant" changes when he takes charge.
Andrew Waller is replacing Steve Galloway as leader of the city's Liberal Democrats, and could become council leader later this month.
In his first interview since the announcement, Coun Waller pledged to promote the Made in York' brand, stressing the importance of home-grown industries, food, and fuel. He vowed to plant a new wood, which would help provide eco-friendly biomass fuel for the city.
Coun Waller also promised more openness with residents, and a "one-city" approach, aimed at breaking down social and economic barriers.
He said: "A much greater emphasis is needed on supporting existing York companies to flourish - Home Grown' will be a key emphasis.
"As traditional employers regroup in the city (confectionery, railways and manufacturing) they will need encouragement to remain in the city.
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"There is also a change ongoing in the tourism and hospitality industry to improve the quality of service, and the quality of employment in these areas as they become an ever greater aspect of our economy."
As exclusively revealed in The Press yesterday, Coun Galloway, 59, is standing down after five years as council leader, saying it is time to hand over to somebody younger.
Coun Waller, who is 38, said: "It is how I go about my business which will be different, as every leader has a different style."
He indicated he would favour a coalition council, with at least two parties joining the executive to smooth decision-making, but such hopes appear unlikely to be realised, with none of the opposition groups keen.
He said York was at a "critical stage" with large developments at Hungate and York North West.
"Together with changes in job patterns in the city, it is important that the city develops in a way which brings benefits to the whole city," he said.
Coun Waller said public satisfaction with council services was rising, but said there was more that could be done to explain decisions to residents.
He also said he would like to see more co-operation with voluntary groups, and firmer links with York's churches and faith communities.
He said: "At a time when they are being challenged to be more outward looking through initiatives like Hope08, the council needs to reciprocate. This should be more practical in a city like York with its long faith heritage. I would, depending on the outcome of the full council meeting on May 22, seek to restore the post of leader's chaplain."
He also said he would step up York's campaign for a return of landfill tax and on equality added: "While York is a patchwork of different neighbourhoods, there needs to be a breaking down of barriers to communication, affordable housing, transport and services."
Politicians give views on the Galloway legacy
POLITICIANS of all parties have been reacting to the news of council leader Steve Galloway's resignation.
York MP Hugh Bayley said: "He has earned some time off after years of public service to the city of York, and I wish him well."
He said he had written to Coun Galloway, saying: "We have seen eye to eye on some things and worked together on them for the benefit of York, and we have crossed swords on other things. You are not the retiring kind of guy and will still be on the council, so I look forward to co-operating or clashing depending on the issue."
Christian Vassie, who will stand in York Central for the Lib Dems at the next General Election, said: "The age profile of visitors to York shows that we must work to encourage younger people to see York as an exciting place to visit. We have a fantastic opportunity to demonstrate that the Lib Dems are the best party to preserve all that is best about York and, at the same time, create the more vibrant city sought after by residents and visitors alike."
Conservative leader Ian Gillies said: "Steve Galloway developed into a respected council leader and has been a worthy political opponent over the past year. During my time as a group leader he has worked hard for the city and he has tried to provide a framework for a secure and prosperous economy fit for York. I am confident he will continue to support the city."
Keith Hyman, the Sheriff of York and Lib Dem group chairman, said: "His energy and enthusiasm are unparalleled. Over the last five years, as leader of the council, he has been able to achieve many of his ambitions for York and he has worked tirelessly to improve the economic well-being of the city.
"However, his priority has always been the residents of this beautiful place and every week you will find him out knocking on people's doors to find out what they really think.
"He has always wanted the best for York and York has much to thank him for. Although his decision to step down is not a surprise to the group, we will miss his leadership but are confident that we can carry his legacy forward."
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