Councillor resigns

Councillor Elwyn Watkins

Councillor Elwyn Watkins has resigned from his position as councillor for Healey. Councillor Watkins is the Liberal Democrat candidate for Parliament in the Oldham East and Saddleworth constituency. 

Councillor Watkins said: “As many people will be aware I am running for parliament in Oldham. The time has come for me to make a decision regarding my council seat in Healey and I felt it would be unfair to my Healey constituents if I continued as their councillor.

"I would like to thank the wonderful people of Healey who have allowed me to be their representative for the last 6 years. I would also like to thank my fellow ward councillors, Tom Bailey and Alan Taylor for their hard work and dedication.

"Despite my decision to resign I am still deeply interested in Rochdale and issues such as the Spodden Valley campaign, whatever happens I will continue to be actively involved with the Turner Brothers asbestos site. Moreover, I look forward to the continued success of the Healey site base. I will continue to follow these topics closely and wish my successor all the best for the future.”