We invited each candidate to supply up to 500 words on why they deserve your vote, optionally including a photograph and a link to an election address. We have published their submissions verbatim, no editorial changes have been made. Any errors are those of the candidate.
Hello, some of you may know me but many of you may not so let me tell you something about myself.
I was born, raised, schooled, worked and lived in Rye for my entire life which hopefully gives me a great insight to Ryes past, present and future.
I have been a councillor for Rye since being elected in 2007 and having the privilege of being this Town’s Mayor and also speaker of the Cinque Ports confederation.
Having joined East Sussex Fire Brigade aged 19 and still serve to this day at Rye, on call and whole time at The Ridge in Hastings.
I am a director of Rye Amenity CIC and we manage both of Rye’s allotment sites which are both full with waiting lists for plots.
Chair of the Planning Committee at Rye and fully engaged with the neighbourhood plan which hopefully will be supported by all in Rye.
If re-elected on the 2nd of May I will represent the people of Rye no matter what background you have or political elegancies.
Like many towns Rye has many problems, some easy to fix, given the will others complexed and challenging.
Some areas that I feel need addressing are,
More affordable housing, in line with the average income for the area and not house prices.
Higher value jobs, with greater skills based needs working with the education sector and businesses to bring employment to Rye.
Better transport links working towards a solution for the A259 around the town and the electrification of the Hastings Ashford line.
Bringing in more day to day operations to Rye Town council. The Rye Town Steward and his small team has been a great success around the Town.
Working towards a solution that works for Rye with regards to the parking in and around this town.
Better communication with County and District councils, working together for all in Rye.
Attracting shops that offer greater choice, keenly priced and offer what the consumer needs and wants.
On the whole Rye is a great place to live, work and visit with its great past but we must not forget the present and push for a better future.