I have been an Uttlesford resident since 1996 when I returned from living and working abroad.
I have had the privilege of representing Dunmow South as a district councillor since 2011 during which time I have been a member of the planning committee. I think residents will be aware of my track record of putting their interests ahead of those of developers, I have been involved in a number of planning appeals along with taking certain matters to the High Court.
I believe my experience in planning matters would be useful to a new council, particularly with regard to developing the local plan.
I spent some 15 years working in London as a licenced private hire driver, my passengers included celebrities and notables such as Tony Benn and Linda Bellingham.
My interests and hobbies include scuba diving, I am a qualified technical diver and I have been to Scapa Flow several times to check on the German fleet. I am happy to report that it remains in some 30-40M of seawater, firmly on the seabed. I try to play the guitar but I can’t claim that the result is anything other than mediocre.
Why do I love where I live? Dunmow particularly and Uttlesford generally are among the most attractive parts of Essex, the historic villages, the countryside and the general ambience are unique. Dunmow is an historic market town with some beautiful buildings in a wonderful setting. I want the council to preserve this heritage and not bury it under a sea of ugly modern houses merely to garner a sum of money from the government.
My family have lived in Dunmow since 1975, my father was the local police inspector till his retirement. I have roots here and a commitment to the area. I mentioned above that I have had the privilege of representing the ward since 2011. I hope that residents will agree that I have done enough to justify being given a mandate to continue representing you from 2015 onwards.