A NEW councillor has been co-opted onto Pegswood Parish Council.
David Young was chosen by the other members at a recent meeting. The vacancy was created when former chairman Peter Stonell resigned to concentrate on his role as Chairman of Pegswood Community Hub.
The authority believes that Coun Young, who divides his time between Northumberland College and the St Cloud State University, Minnesota, Alnwick campus, will bring energy, commitment and focus.
He worked in senior positions in the Scottish education system until he moved to Pegswood.
The 67-year-old said: “I’m pleased that I have been given the opportunity to contribute to the projects and developments in the parish.
“I have vast experience of dealing with diverse groups and analytical skills that will be of use to the council.
“I will bring a different perspective to the authority. I have lived in Pegswood for the last three years, so I think I can be classed as an insider and an outsider in regard to my role.
“The upcoming key issues for Pegswood include the impact of the bypass extension through to the A1, new housing in the village and the need to develop more light industry, including the possibility of a new industrial estate, to help provide further employment.
“There is a need to look at the care provision for elderly residents in Pegswood and hopefully we can further develop our railway station link, I think it’s a resource waiting to be tapped.”
The other candidate during this co-option process, Paul Williams, has agreed to work as an advisor to the council, using his project manager experience to help develop the Welfare Park recreation area.