Gloucester City Council has created a new cabinet role for leading economic recovery from the coronavirus crisis.

Councillor Dawn Melvin has been named cabinet member for economic recovery and will play a significant part not only in the city's recovery from the Coronavirus pandemic, but also in guiding the economy when restrictions are fully lifted.

The portfolio brings together the following council activities:

• Economic development
• City centre management
• Licencing and Environmental Health
• Night time economy
• Markets and street trading

Councillor Melvin, who represents the Westgate, will liaise with business support organisations such as GFirst LEP, the Federation of Small Businesses, the Gloucester Business Improvement District (BID), the Licensed Victuallers' Association and others to deliver targeted help and provide economic stimulus where possible.

She said: "I am truly thrilled to be taking up this cabinet position. It is a large, challenging portfolio which I will fully immerse myself in to with the same enthusiasm, determination, energy, and will to succeed that I have used as my ethos since I was elected in 2016.

"Economic recovery and growth following COVID-19 will challenge every business both large and small. It won't be overnight, but together we will get through this, as we always do in Gloucester.

"Gloucester City Council and I as the cabinet lead will be there to support and fight for our residents and businesses every step of the way."

She continued: "I look forward to working with local businesses, GFirst LEP, the council, the FSB, central government departments, other business support partners, and of course our incredible officers at Gloucester City Council and my colleagues in the Cabinet"

Councillor Richard Cook, leader of Gloucester City Council, said: "Dawn's business background and expertise make her an ideal choice to represent the interests of businesses of all types and sizes within the city.

"This is a role that is needed to help us go through the recovery phases of the current public health crisis, which has affected residents and businesses alike. 

"Dawn is already a great advocate for our local businesses and I'm sure this role, and her appointment to it, will be greatly welcomed by our colleagues, partners and the city as whole."

Punchline says: We welcome this appointment. Dawn Melvin is a great choice, has the pedigree in business and is a great asset to the city.