The Redditch Labour Group has announced its three priorities for Redditch Borough Council after officially taking leadership in May. 

Redditch Labour councillors have laid out an initial series of actions based on their manifesto. 

The priorities are:

  • To start the process which will put an end to the demolition of the Library building and maintain the service exactly where it is. Officers and members will produce an alternative plan for the Town Hall and investigate changes to the Town Deal project funding. 
  • To create a regular council-run outdoor market with quality stalls which will increase footfall and support the town centre economy. 
  • To reduce the cost of Dial-a-Ride journeys. It will be implemented from August and will support elderly and vulnerable residents who are unable to use public transport. An affordable way to travel is set to increase wellbeing and reduce loneliness in the community. 

Leader of Redditch Borough Council, councillor Joe Baker, said: "This is just the beginning of the fresh start we have promised to Redditch.

"We have listened to you on the doorstep, won a huge mandate for change and now we are eager to get started on our manifesto priorities.

"We have lots of work to do and there is more good news to come. You have put your trust in us, and we will keep our promises to you."

Labour took back control of Redditch Borough Council from the Conservatives with a massive 15-seat majority in May's local election. 

Boundary changes meant all the council seats were contested.

Labour picked up nine seats and overall control, while the Conservatives saw their tally drop by 11.

It is the first time Labour has taken control of Redditch Borough Council since 2018.