Tees Valley Mayor election: Who is Chris McEwan?

Chris McEwan is the Labour Party candidate for Tees Valley Mayor

Voters will elect the Tees Valley Mayor on 2 May, to represent about 670,000 people across five local authorities: Darlington, Hartlepool, Middlesbrough, Redcar and Cleveland and Stockton-on-Tees.

The mayor has devolved powers and funding to make local decisions, including on: economic development, transport, skills and adult training, regeneration, culture and tourism.

The role was created in 2017 and is currently held by Conservative Ben Houchen, who was re-elected in May 2021.

Chris McEwan is the Labour Party candidate

He is also the current Darlington Council deputy leader and has worked in the NHS for over 30 years. Mr McEwan, 58, says he grew up in Middlesbrough and has lived in Darlington with his family for over 30 years. He is the Labour councillor for Haughton and Springfield and a cabinet member for economy.

His top priority is trust

Mr McEwan has promised to be a mayor people can "trust", saying: "For too long, the people who work and live in the Tees Valley have not seen the full benefit of investment in our region. That will change when I’m mayor."

He says he will improve transport

He has pledged to create a fully integrated transport network to make it easier for people to get to work, school or go about their daily lives. Mr McEwan has also said he will cap fares and take buses under public control, to create a system that "puts passengers ahead of profit".

He has 'energy, integrity and experience'

When we asked what makes him the best person for Tees Valley Mayor, he said: "I’ve dedicated my life to public service in the NHS and as a councillor. As mayor I’ll deliver a good deal for the people of the Tees Valley."

He says 'working together' is what the Tees Valley is about

Mr McEwan said: "There is nothing more inspiring than when our communities come together to solve a problem for the common good."