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Council Leader announces new Cabinet
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The Leader of Walsall Council, Councillor Elaine Williams, confirmed her new Cabinet at the Annual Council meeting on Thursday 21 May 2026.
“ I am honoured to have been elected as Leader and grateful for the trust placed in me. As Reform UK takes on the leadership of the council, we are determined to bring a clear sense of direction, strong accountability, and a renewed focus on the issues that matter most to local people. We have been fighting for change, and we have now been given a mandate to deliver the meaningful change that improves the lives of residents.
"My Cabinet is committed to delivering for residents, working closely with communities and partners, and providing clear leadership across the council’s priorities. Together, we will work to ensure the council continues to provide effective services, make the best use of resources, and deliver on our ambitions for Walsall and its residents. “
The seven-strong team of councillors in the Cabinet each look after particular services and have specific responsibilities.
The new Walsall Council Cabinet is:
Councillor Elaine Williams - Leader of Walsall Council, and Portfolio Holder for Finance and Governance, and Portfolio Holder for Internal Services
Councillor Nicky Barker - Deputy Leader and Portfolio Holder for Regeneration
Councillor Lisa Jones - Portfolio Holder for Children, Education and Skills
Councillor Peter Harrison - Portfolio Holder for Adult Social Care
Councillor Matt Eason - Portfolio Holder for Culture, Health and Wellbeing
Councillor Ian Benton - Portfolio Holder for Street Scene and Enforcement
Councillor Stuart Chapman MBE - Portfolio Holder for Housing Support, Resident Access and Communities
Ends
Notes to editors
Councillor Elaine Williams is the Leader of Walsall Council and represents the Short Heath ward. Born and raised in Southall, West London, she studied law at Nottingham Trent University and has worked as a practising solicitor for more than 25 years. She moved to the West Midlands in 2006 and has lived in Walsall since 2011. She has been actively involved with the Reform Party since its early days.
Walsall’s Council Plan sets out the council’s vision and priorities for the next four years, where it resources will be prioritised, and how it will deliver against the long-term We Are Walsall 2040 vision for the borough.
To view Walsall Council’s Pursuing Excellence, Our Council Plan 2025-29, visit:
