Lewisham’s joint cabinet member for culture, jobs, and skills is stepping down as a councillor.  

New Cross Councillor Joe Dromey is leaving the council to take on new role as director of Central London Forward (CLF). 

CLF is a partnership of 12 local authorities which aims to drive inclusive growth in the capital. 

As it stands its three core policy concerns are helping residents get back into work, improving jobs skills, and increasing the supply of new homes in London.  

The role is politically restricted, so Cllr Dromey will be standing down from his cabinet post and resigning as a ward councillor in the spring. 

A by-election in New Cross is set to take place at the same time as the London Mayoral election in May 2021. 

Cllr Dromey was first elected to Lewisham Council in 2014 and was appointed to the cabinet in May 2018. 

He has led on employment, skills, and economic development. 

Cllr Joani Reid will be taking over Cllr Dromey’s cabinet responsibilities.  

Mayor Damien Egan said: “Over the last seven years Joe has made a fantastic contribution to the Council and I will be very sad to see him step down. 

“Since joining my cabinet in 2018 he’s been a champion for Lewisham’s small businesses, increased apprenticeship opportunities and led the council’s work on doubling the number of Living Wage employers. 

“His new role leading Central London Forward will see Joe speaking up for Lewisham and other London boroughs on behalf of our residents.  

“I would like to thank Joe for all his hard work and wish him the best of luck in his new role.” 

Cllr Dromey said: “It has been a real privilege to represent our community for the last seven years.  

“After a decade of austerity, these are tough time for local government. But from supporting small businesses through the crisis, to fighting for the Living Wage and high quality apprenticeships, I’ve hugely enjoyed my role. 

“I’m really excited about this new challenge. The pandemic has hit the capital hard, and it has hit our most vulnerable residents hardest.  

“Working alongside the boroughs, Central London Forward has a vital role to play in supporting the recovery, and building a more inclusive economy after the crisis. 

“As someone passionate about both inclusive growth and London, this is the perfect role for me.  

“As a new dad, it’s the right time to move on. I will really miss working with our dedicated councillors, our fantastic officers, and our incredible community.”