North Tyneside deserves better.

Full statement

For too long, our local government has failed its residents—broken promises, wasted opportunities, and weak leadership have left our communities behind. Labour and Conservative politicians have put their own interests first while ignoring the real needs of the people.
I’m Martin Uren, and I’m here to change that.

I’m not a career politician. I’ve worked hard my entire life—whether as a multimedia journalist, taxi driver, psychosis group facilitator for CNTW, or planning a Jet Ski Safari business to boost wellbeing for local residents. I know what it means to graft and I share the frustration of seeing politicians serve themselves instead of us.

For decades, we’ve endured neglect. While families struggle, politicians waste billions—like during the COVID PPE scandal—while failing to invest in our communities. Wet ‘n’ Wild, once a major attraction, sits abandoned. The Spanish City redevelopment dragged on for years with no clear plan. North Sea oil profits bypass local people. It’s time to hold power accountable.

Real Action, Not Empty Promises

Cleaner Air for Everyone – I’ll introduce a ventilation system in Howden to reduce pollution and improve air quality across North Tyneside.

Lower Council Tax – Labour broke its promise on freezing council tax while removing the winter fuel allowance. I’ll fight to keep more money in your pocket.

Tynemouth Outdoor Pool Revival – Inspired by Dublin’s success, I’ll develop a clear business plan to restore the pool for public use using community-proven Nationally Lottery funding.

A Better Metro System – I’ll push for a more affordable fare system with “one-in-one-out” gates to stop fare evasion, directing funds into safety and reliability.

Tackling Traffic & Congestion – I’ll introduce Dutch-style cycle and walking bridges to ease Seatonville Road’s rush-hour gridlock. High Flatworth Road will be reopened to all vehicles, reducing congestion at Silverlink and giving access to the A193 and A187.

Cracking Down on Shoplifting – I’ll work with Northumbria Police to name and shame offenders online, using video evidence. Stolen amounts will be deducted from benefits where appropriate.

Energy Independence & Lower Bills – By tapping into local natural resources, we’ll generate sustainable electricity, sell the surplus, and use profits to cut council tax instead of benefiting foreign shareholders.

Housing for Locals, Not Landlords – I’ll prioritise affordable starter homes for local families, stopping buy-to-let schemes that drive up rents.

Keeping our Community Safe - There’s 215,000 residents in North Tyneside and 45% of them are over the age of 60 - we need to protect the vulnerable and young. As mayor, I have a duty of care to our residents and would repel the housing of any illegal aliens in the local community.

North Tyneside needs real leadership—not more excuses. I’m Martin Uren, and I stand for honesty, transparency, and action. Let’s build a stronger, healthier, and more resilient community together.