Monday, 13th October 2014: Residents for Uttlesford (R4U), the local advocacy group for towns and villages, has moved forward its campaign for better local government by asking residents from across the north-Essex district to step forward and join its team of candidates for its 2015 district election bid.
Residents won their first 2 independent council seats in 2013 – John Lodge for Essex County Council and Joanna Parry for Uttlesford District Council. The May 2015 district elections will see new councillors elected from every ward across Uttlesford.
Dan Starr co-founder of Residents for Uttlesford said:
“The current Tory controlled district council have failed the residents of Uttlesford. For 7 years they’ve incompetently forced national party policies on our district. These have traded our long-term legacy and quality of life for short-term cash grabbing and self-serving politics. Residents from across the district have told us they want proper strategic planning, far higher standards and effective accountability from district leaders. It’s time for a wholesale change. We desperately need a Council that will work competently and responsibly for the residents of Uttlesford.”
John Lodge chair of Residents for Uttlesford and Essex County Councillor said:
“The national political party whip has been running roughshod over the wishes of residents for too long – and every community in Uttlesford is affected. The only way that locals can decide for themselves is to elect a majority of independent councillors in 2015. We’re working with other residents’ groups and calling on residents, parish councillors, and disaffected district councillors from across the district to join our growing team of residents’ independent candidates for Uttlesford 2015.”
Joanna Parry, Uttlesford District Councillor added:
“As a resident, I stood for election in 2013 because it was clear that substantive change could only be achieved from the inside. Residents have already shown that they are a highly competent and credible local alternative who care about the future of the district. We encourage those who love where they live to step forward and join us.”
To find out more about becoming an R4U candidate, volunteer or supporter please contact Residents for Uttlesford.