We are fortunate to live in an attractive part of the country and I want to keep it that way.

Full statement

Our area is under a lot of pressure to accept new development. Whilst there should be homes for local people, this needs to be managed. New homes and more people means more traffic. This has become a significant issue in many local roads. Speed of vehicles, parking and congestion are daily battles. Working with the ward’s other Councillors, I will press forcefully for these and other concerns in Oatlands and Burwood Park to be given the attention they deserve. Local services are also under pressure and your Councillors must be able to rise to the challenges this brings. The chaos which ensued following the botched introduction of the new waste and recycling service by the then Liberal Democrat/Residents’ Association coalition demonstrated the need for focussed and capable leadership. My time as a Councillor in another authority taught me how to work with officers to plan and work within local government budgets. As a former Councillor and in my professional work with Members of Parliament, I have organised and led projects, worked with people from a wide variety of backgrounds and managed large teams of volunteers. I cannot promise to solve the concerns of everyone in Oatlands and Burwood Park but I will be responsive to and supportive of residents and represent you in the best way possible. I have lived in Oatlands for over twenty years and wish not only to maintain and enhance the quality of life many of us enjoy but also improve life for those less fortunate.

Keeping Development Manageable Our area is highly rated for quality of life. We have green spaces, good schools, low unemployment and relatively low crime. As a result many people want to live here which puts enormous pressure on housing, services and traffic. Demand for housing must be carefully and sensibly managed. We need affordable housing for local people but must resist intrusive over-development which is a significant issue in Oatlands and Burwood Park. More housing and more people increases traffic and demand on local services which must be addressed if Elmbridge is to remain a desirable place to live.

Hilary's main priorities for Oatlands & Burwood Park

1. Put Oatlands and Burwood Park First. The interests of our area will always be my priority. I will support and argue for the services and facilities we need and deserve. 2. Resist Over-Development. Whilst we need affordable homes for local people, I will stand up to any plans for excessive and intrusive over-development.

2. Improve roads and parking. Condition of our roads, speed of vehicles, parking and traffic congestion are increasing problems. I will press Surrey County Council for measures to mitigate these issues.

3. Champion local shops. Small businesses form the backbone of our communities. I will support initiatives to help retailers in Oatlands Village, Queen’s Road and the town centre.

4. Weybridge Hospital. The redevelopment of this site is a superb opportunity to provide the community with a range of new facilities. I will work to ensure we get the best possible proposals for local residents.

5. Local money for local people. The Council’s money is our money. I will strive to ensure that Council funds are spent sensibly and efficiently and that residents receive the best value possible.