Wirral 'on the brink of major transformational changes' says mayor

Wirral is "on the brink of major transformational changes" according to its new mayor.

Cllr Cherry Povall was elected by councillors at an annual general meeting held on May 15 as the borough's new Mayor as Wirral Council celebrates its 50 year anniversary. Cllr Povall has represented the borough ward of Clatterbridge since 2008.

The civic mayor represents the council at events and ceremonies, presents awards and honours like the Wirral Award and Freedom of the Borough, and chairs Wirral full council meetings. Upton councillor Jerry Williams was previously in the post.

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In her first speech as Mayor, Cllr Povall said: "Our council is in a much better place as I'm sure you are fully aware working as a more cohesive unit. We have hopefully seen off the challenge to our precious green belt and we are on the brink of major transformational changes."

She added: "The future of Wirral will look very different to what it is now. Birkenhead is set to be transformed beyond recognition. Out will go the flyovers to the tunnels, a new linear park will be formed along the old railway line from Woodside and Woodside itself is being transformed into a more leisure friendly space.

"Liscard is due for a £10m facelift. New housing and a new school are planned for the Hind Street area." She said the Wirral Waters development "will eventually give us a world class marina."

She said: "We need to make sure we grab these opportunities with both hands. Wirral has so much to offer as a peninsula." She will support Incubabies, which she is a trustee, and the Blind Sailing School as her main charities.

In his closing remarks as Mayor, Cllr Williams said it had been an honour to represent the Wirral in the position. He said the opening of a memorial headstone for stillborn babies at Landican Cemetery was a standout point in the year, describing it as an emotional experience speaking to the families affected.

A protestor over the current conflict in Gaza was asked to leave Birkenhead Town Hall shortly before the meeting.

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