I live on Culverden Park with my family so this part of Tunbridge Wells matters to me - it’s my home.

Full statement

I am a solicitor and have previously been a Borough Councillor, trustee and school governor so have the experience to represent our area.

My priorities if I am elected are:

• stopping over-development - the Lib Dems council’s new Local Plan will force thousands of houses on Tunbridge Wells. But there are no guarantees on water supply, infrastructure or public services. We need to put the existing community first and make sure we only allow development once the infrastructure is secured. We need to learn the lessons of the water crisis.

• protecting the Common - I support the fantastic work of the Friends of the Common. I’ve been disappointed the Council has not used its financial or other resources better to support the community campaign. We need to change this urgently to make sure the Common is protected for the town and future generations.

• cleaning up the town - in too many places, the town needs a tidy-up. Litter, grime, graffiti, weeds, damaged pavements, broken benches… We need to focus on the local environment to make it a better place for residents and visitors.

• tackling anti-social behaviour and crime - too many people do not feel safe in our town centre, on the Common or in parks. We need to change this - with more visible police, town centre wardens, better CCTV and improved lighting.

• value for money - under the Lib Dems, council tax has gone up by 12% since 2023, car parking has risen by up to 188% in the last year, and the cost of things like green waste bins and parking permits have risen by a lot more than inflation. This makes a difference with all the cost of living pressures we face currently. We need a council that genuinely focuses on the cost of living and value for money. Keeping council tax low is a real priority for me.

I am standing because I love this town and this part of Tunbridge Wells in particular. I hope you will support me.