Councillor Moriah Priestley will join the Milton Keynes Council Executive as Cabinet Member for Economic Development and Community Partnerships.

Moriah is a ward councillor for Central Milton Keynes and was re-elected to the council in May. She has previously served on MK Council between 2014 and 2015. She currently owns her own small business. Cllr Priestley replaces Cllr Liz Gifford on the cabinet after Liz stood down from MK Council at the elections.

Moriah will take charge of the economic development portfolio ensuring Milton Keynes continues to be one of the fastest growing economies in the UK. She will also oversee MK Council’s relationship with parish councils and the voluntary sector, having had previous experience of working closely with both in a professional capacity.

Cllr Priestley joins Cllr Rob Middleton, who will continue as Cabinet Member for Resources, Cllr Hannah O’Neill who will take charge of Adult Social Care, Cllr Nigel Long who looks after housing, Cllr Martin Gowans who is responsible for Public Realm, Cllr Mick Legg who will manage the Customer Services portfolio and Cllr Zoe Nolan who remains in charge of Children’s Services and Education.

Cllr Moriah Priestley said: “I am very honoured to be joining the Mk Council cabinet. Economic growth is hugely important to the city and I will be bringing my own experiences as a small business owner to the role.“

She continued: “I am also passionate about ensuring a strong voice for our community and voluntary sectors, and parish councils. I am looking forward to getting out and meeting as many local businesses and organisations as possible, listening to what they have to say and ensuring MK Council continues to support our great business and community sectors even in challenging times.”

Cllr Peter Marland, Leader of Milton Keynes Council said: “I have known Moriah for a long time now. She’s passionate about Milton Keynes and a great champion for local businesses and the voluntary sector. She will bring her skills to the Cabinet and ensure we continue to work to make MK the best place to do business, and provide support to the voluntary and community sector.“