Downtown in Business has welcomed the appointment of Councillor Garry Bridges as the new Leader of Manchester City Council.
Councillor Bridges, who represents Old Moat ward, was elected Leader of the council’s Labour Group this week. He succeeds Bev Craig, who has become Mayor of Greater Manchester following Andy Burnham’s move to Downing Street.
Having previously served as Deputy Leader and more recently as interim Leader, Councillor Bridges brings significant experience and a detailed understanding of the opportunities and challenges facing Manchester.
Downtown in Business Group Chair and Chief Executive Frank McKenna said:
“On behalf of DIB and our Manchester business community, I congratulate Garry on his appointment and wish him every success in his new role.
“Manchester’s remarkable progress has been built on ambitious civic leadership, a willingness to work constructively with the private sector and an unapologetically pro-growth approach to regeneration and investment.
“Garry has played an important role in that journey. His appointment provides continuity, but it also gives him an opportunity to establish his own priorities and set out the next chapter of Manchester’s growth story.
“With Bev Craig now leading Greater Manchester, there is a real opportunity to strengthen the relationship between the city council, the combined authority and the business community. Maintaining that partnership will be vital as Manchester seeks to attract further investment, deliver major development projects and ensure economic growth benefits communities across the city.
“DIB has developed an excellent working relationship with Manchester City Council through our involvement in the Business Sounding Board and our wider programme of engagement. We look forward to working closely with Garry, his Cabinet and the council’s senior leadership team. “Manchester has never lacked confidence or ambition. At a time when cities are central to the government’s growth agenda, strong collaboration between political and business leaders will be more important than ever.”
