Manifesto,
If elected to represent the ward I bring many facets that would be of value to serving on Torridge District Council (TDC).
· Practical knowledge of agriculture & tourism. This reflects the many changes in both industries so important to the Torridge economy.
· Worked both in voluntary and paid capacity as Citizen Advice Bureau. Specialising in disability, sickness, terminal illness & carer issues, the provision of health & social services is a constant theme.
· Served as school governor on six occasions (inc. Westcroft). I have served at various stages on all sub committees addressing curriculum, finance and property
· As part of the community, and living in the ward I have been involved in many events and projects. This includes youth work, scout camps to the farm & involvement with farming and wildlife organisations.
· Worked with the Samaritan national rural outreach programme - seeking to network with both statutory and voluntary organisations. Issues included the reduction in rural services, agricultural changes & rural isolation.
THE ISSUES - there are many -
THE MONKLEIGH & LITTLEHAM WARD
reaches from the urban environment of south part of Bideford to rurality of the villages and settlements.
· Lack of affordable housing - is making it increasingly difficult for families to obtain a mortgage or pay rent to meet housing costs.
· Low wages - comparing averages Torridge is one of the lowest in the country
· Planning & development - Torridge natural beauty is a priceless asset and the quality of life is very special. This is not to say that sensitive development both for housing and industry is vital.
· TDC - with the many changes of staff personnel, the reviews and audits which has taken place over the last years hopefully will have enabled much needed improvement to have taken place. The highest council tax increase of any district in Devon and twice the rate of increase of near neighbour NDDC beg the question of how the income is used.
· Environment - global issues will have local consequences. Alternative sources of energy generation which leave no carbon footprint will be the future agenda.
· Transport- although not under the remit of TDC - the main road which runs from to Frithelstock, the lack of any primary road to Littleham is concern for community safety.
In serving as
the ELECTED MEMBER I would
· Bring a strong independent mind, free from the constraint of national politics to achieve the best outcome for the ward. A district council election is about local, practical and everyday issues needing a pragmatic and common sense approach which unites and builds strength into communities.
· Work constructively with all elected and paid staff of TDC whatever the viewpoint to achieve the common good
· To work with any elected member of the national or European parliament.
· To network with all organisations which have influence within TDC.
· Build upon my already significant knowledge of the ward by attending as many Parish and Bideford Town Council meetings as possible.
· Be available as far as possible to address individual issues
· Take a long term viewpoint for the best outcome primarily for this ward and secondly Torridge