RESIDENTS in Appleton, Stockton Heath and Stretton have been reassured they will not be left out in getting the chance to press the council leader on key issues.

Cllr Russ Bowden (LAB – Birchwood) is hitting the road to give residents the opportunity to challenge him about community topics and priorities during the leader’s forums.

The events will take place once a month in different wards across the borough and are being chaired by council chief executive Steven Broomhead.

The first was held at Whitecross Community Centre on Tuesday, with the next three to take place at Culcheth Community Campus, Lymm Youth and Community Centre and Oakwood Neighbourhood Hub.

Further dates and venues are yet to be finalised.

During Tuesday’s leader’s forum, Stretton resident John Appleton told Cllr Bowden he was ‘surprised’ an event has not been confirmed for the Appleton, Stockton Heath and Stretton area.

He added: “I noticed in your list of venues for these leadership meetings there is nothing planned for the Appleton, Stockton Heath and Stretton area.

“All I could ask is you try and put a venue for that area on your list and make sure it is a big room as well.”

Cllr Bowden told Mr Appleton he will certainly be ‘going everywhere in the town’, including the area highlighted.

He added that the consultation periods for the local plan and local transport plan – which will both be going before the executive board next month – will run at the same time as there is a ‘very strong connection’ between the two.