THE leader of Kirklees Council has re-shuffled his Cabinet – the executive decision-making body of councillors responsible for policies, plans and strategies.

Clr Shabir Pandor has described the shake-up as “a reshaping to deliver the ambitions of the council for the people of Kirklees.”

The reshuffle has seen the departure of Clr Masood Ahmed, the council’s Cabinet member for Learning and Aspiration, who has been at the centre of discussions over the future of Almondbury Community School (ACS), part of which is earmarked for closure in 2020.

Clr Ahmed has faced criticism from parents of children at ACS for “dodging” key questions about the school during the period of a contentious consultation exercise.

At a Cabinet meeting in April parents asked for clarity on the redrawing of catchment areas, rumour surrounding interest in ACS from a Calderdale-based academy, and what Kirklees intended to do with land and buildings in the event of the school’s closure.

They also asked whether thought had been given to the effects on pupils’ mental health and the behaviour of children affected by the changes.

In response Clr Ahmed said a consultation was ongoing and that he didn’t want to jeopardise that.

He was backed by Clr Pandor, who said as part of the consultation process “all views will be taken into account”.

Clr Pandor said he was “sad” to announce that his colleague was stepping down “for personal reasons”, and thanked him for his support.

“Clr Ahmed made this decision several weeks ago but he wanted to ensure continuity and deliver the ‘options report’ on Almondbury Community High School before he finished, because he felt he owed this to the children, parents and everyone involved in the proposals he has worked alongside.”

His role will be taken by Clr Carole Pattison, a veteran councillor and chair of the Labour Group.

Clr Rob Walker takes on the role of portfolio holder for Culture and Environment.

The new Cabinet line-up comprises: Viv Kendrick (Children); Mus Khan (Health and Social Care); Naheed Mather (Greener Kirklees, a change from Communities and Environment); Peter McBride (Regeneration, and Deputy Leader of the Council); Carole Pattison (Learning, Aspiration and Communities); Cathy Scott (Housing and Democracy); Graham Turner (Corporate); Rob Walker (Culture and Environment) and Clr Pandor (Council Leader).

Clr Pandor’s responsibilities include strategy for the council, regional relationships, budget development, strategic partnerships and inclusive growth as well as diversity.

Clr Pandor added: “Within my Cabinet I have really good people who are shaping our ambitious plans for the future, plans which will lead to greater investment for the area as well as ensuring each town and village is invested in so we can provide for the best future for our residents.

“In addition to my highly experienced, current Cabinet members, I have brought in new members and widened the portfolio responsibilities so that we can focus on our key priorities.”