THE deputy leader of Cumberland Council says she is feeling “ready” and “optimistic” as the new authority prepares to take over.

Emma Williamson, who represents Kells and Sandwith, has praised council staff for their hard work in overseeing the transfer of services to the new council, which comes into effect on April 1.

Cumberland Council will cover the area currently served by Carlisle City Council, Allerdale Borough Council, Copeland Borough Council and Cumbria County Council.

Cllr Williamson said: “I feel really optimistic. I think we’ve got a great team of staff. We’ve got brilliant directors, from right down to those on the ground. We have got a really good team who are really enthusiastic and focused.

“We’ve got a great mix of councillors with different skills, experience and knowledge and I feel like we’re ready.

“I think it’s going to transfer smoothly because our officers in the city, the county and both districts have been working really hard. Often a lot of them have been doing two jobs. It’s going smoothly because of them. It’s really important to recognise that.

“We are seeing everything going well and everything on track. It’s because of the commitment and dedication of the staff. They are the ones who do the hard work. When I hear what they have managed to achieve, it’s brilliant.

“When government decide they are going to do something like this, staff have very little say. Politicians make the decision but staff have to deliver them.

“I’m feeling really positive. We are on the final stretch now. I feel ready because we have got a good team. Mark Fryer is a really good leader. He gives us the support we need and values our opinions.

“What’s really important is the leadership across the councils – Lisa [Brown] being from Carlisle, Mark from Allerdale and me from Copeland – sets a really good stance.

“We are absolutely committed to the whole of Cumberland.”

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