Harrogate district goes to the polls tomorrow

People in the Harrogate district will go to the polls tomorrow for perhaps the most important local elections for almost 50 years.

Voters will shape key services for 600,000 people in the county by deciding the political make-up of the new North Yorkshire Council.

The unitary authority, which comes into existence on April 1 next year, will replace North Yorkshire County Council and seven district councils, including Harrogate Borough Council.

Councillors elected tomorrow will serve the final year of North Yorkshire County Council and then a further four years on North Yorkshire Council.

It represents the biggest shake-up in local government in North Yorkshire since 1974, when the current structure of local government was introduced.

Tomorrow’s elections will see 310 candidates contest 90 seats in 89 electoral divisions.

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The Conservative Party, which currently controls North Yorkshire County Council and Harrogate Borough Council, is fielding candidates in all 90 seats. There will also be 67 Labour and Co-operative Party candidates, 48 Green Party candidates, 45 Liberal Democrats and 45 Independents. The remaining 15 candidates will be from a range of other smaller parties.

Richard Flinton, the county returning officer for the election who is also the chief executive of North Yorkshire County Council, said:

“This is an opportunity for everyone who is registered to vote to help decide on who they want to represent them at what is a defining moment for North Yorkshire.

“The importance of these elections is hugely significant, as it not only lays the foundations for the decision-makers for the new unitary authority, but it also paves the way for a devolution deal for North Yorkshire and York.”

The government has stipulated that a new unitary authority is a key requirement for any devolution deal for North Yorkshire, which could see an elected mayor with new powers.

Polling stations will be open across the county from 7am until 10pm tomorrow.

More details about the new electoral divisions and the May 5 county council elections are available here.

 

Election 2022: Ripon Minster and Moorside candidate preview

Ahead of polling day on May 5, the Stray Ferret is previewing each of the divisions in the Harrogate district up for election to North Yorkshire Council.

A total of 21 seats will be up for grabs in the district with most of the major parties contesting each one.

Today, we look at the Ripon Minster and Moorside division which will see three candidates standing for election.

Thomas Averre, Conservative

Thomas Averre will be the Conservative candidate for the Ripon Minster and Moorside division.

Mr Averre said he was standing for North Yorkshire Council to “bring new energy into local government and improve local services”.

He said his priorities for council would be restoring faith in politics, improving Ripon’s infrastructure and to make “the most of the opportunities the new unitary authority is bringing”, including funding and new powers.

Mr Averre said:

“Candidates are elected to represent the views of residents, but often seem to have the answers before they have asked the questions. 

“Trust and credibility matters to me so I’m not making lots of promises that can’t be delivered or airing a view on issues I won’t be able to influence, but instead outlining my priorities that will guide my approach if elected. On straightforward issues like potholes and litter, I will work quickly to fix them and keep residents updated on progress. 

“On complex issues like social care funding, planning and economic development, I will take time to listen to residents and fully understand issues before coming to a judgement based on the Council’s capabilities and Ripon’s needs.”

Andrew Williams, Independent

Andrew Williams will be standing as an independent candidate in the division.

Mr Williams, who lives in the city, is currently the leader of Ripon City Council.

He is one of two independent candidates standing in divisions in Ripon.

On why he is standing for the new North Yorkshire Council, Mr Williams said he wanted Ripon to have a “greater say over its own affairs”.

Mr Williams said:

“As a lifelong Riponian I am passionate about Ripon but not about party politics which is why I am standing as an Independent so that I can speak up for Ripon rather than been directed how to speak by a political party.

“North Yorkshire County Council has had an overwhelming Conservative majority for years and look at the state of the roads in Ripon and the cuts to youth services which they have imposed upon our city.

“Unlike my Conservative opponent I live in Ripon and the decisions taken regarding Ripon impact my family as much as they do you, it’s time for Ripon to have a greater say over its own affairs and every Independent vote on Thursday will help to achieve it.”

Thomas Cavell-Taylor, Liberal Democrat

Thomas Cavell-Taylor is the Liberal Democrat candidate for the Ripon Minster and Moorside division.

Mr Cavell-Taylor will be one of two Liberal Democrats standing in divisions in Ripon.

He is currently a co-opted governor at Ripon Grammar School.

Mr Cavell-Taylor ran as a Liberal Democrat candidate for the Ripon Spa ward on Harrogate Borough Council in May 2018, but lost to the Conservatives.

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Election 2022: Washburn and Birstwith candidate preview

Ahead of polling day on May 5, the Stray Ferret is previewing each of the divisions in the Harrogate district up for election to North Yorkshire Council.

A total of 21 seats will be contested in the district with most of the major parties standing in each one.

Today, we look at the Washburn and Birstwith division, where four candidates have put themselves forward.

Nathan Hull, Conservative

The Conservative candidate for Washburn and Birstiwth is Nathan Hull.

Mr Hull, who lives in Nidderdale, works as a solicitor in Harrogate.

On his priorities for standing, Mr Hull said:

“I am a family man, married with five children and have lived in Nidderdale for almost 10 years. By day I work in Harrogate as a solicitor.

“My priorities, if elected, will be to increase road safety around our villages by reducing speeding, ensure that local housing development serves local residents, look after our local schools and special schools, look after the elderly and vulnerable — some of my children have disabilities — protect our environment and countryside and support local businesses and organisations.”

Paul Trewhitt, Green Party

Paul Trewhitt will be the Green Party candidate for the division.

Mr Trewhitt has lived in Lower Nidderdale for the last 20 years and is a chartered marketer by trade.

He said his priorities if elected would be to tackle environmental issues such as flooding and water run-off, energy poverty, sustainable transport, as well as affordable housing.

Mr Trewhitt said:

“My primary concern is the environmental legacy current policies will leave on future generations.

I have lived in Lower Nidderdale for the last 20 years and feel well grounded within the community.

“My great-grandfather farmed in the valley at the time of the First World War. I am interested in local and environmental issues which will affect this community.”

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Ian Galloway, Independent

Ian Galloway will be an independent candidate for the Washburn and Birstwith division.

Mr Galloway was the Conservative councillor for Bishop Monkton on Harrogate Borough Council until 2018.

But, he said he is standing as an independent after not being selected by the party.

Mr Galloway, who lives in Beckwithshaw, said his priority if elected would be to get more funding for rural areas.

He said:

“We are at the southern end of the new unitary authority area and we need to be cute and keep our eyes open.

“Resources are going to be allocated for by Harrogate and Scarborough. So we will need to keep our eyes open.”

Tom Watson, Liberal Democrat

The Liberal Democrat candidate for Washburn and Birstwith is Tom Watson.

Mr Watson lives in Dacre Banks with his wife.

He is currently the councillor for Nidd Valley on Harrogate Borough Council, which he was elected to six years ago.

Mr Watson is also chair of Hartwith-cum-Winsley Parish Council.

He said:

“I am a hard-working experienced councillor with the time, energy and commitment to actively represent the people of this new division on the new North Yorkshire Council.”

Election 2022: Ripon Ure Bank and Spa candidate preview

Ahead of polling day on May 5, the Stray Ferret will be previewing each of the divisions in the Harrogate district up for election to North Yorkshire Council.

A total of 21 seats will be up for grabs in the district with most of the major parties contesting each one.

Today, we look at the Ripon Ure Bank and Spa division which will see four candidates standing for election.

Mike Chambers, Conservative

Mike Chambers is the Conservative candidate for Ripon Ure Bank and Spa division.

Mr Chambers has been associated with Ripon since 1967 and has lived permanently in the city since 1993.

He retired from the Royal Air Force in 2001, following a career, spanning 35 years, and took-up the appointment of Unit Welfare Officer at Claro Barracks, initially with 38 Engineer Regiment and subsequently with 21 Engineer Regiment, until eventually retiring in March 2012.

Mr Chambers currently represents the city on Harrogate Borough Council and North Yorkshire County Council. He also sits on Ripon City Council.

He is also the cabinet member for housing and safer communities on the borough council.

Mr Chambers said:

“The establishment of the new North Yorkshire Council presents new opportunities for Ripon. It is vital that we have strong representatives, able to speak out and get the best deal for Ripon. 

“With a proven record of service to our community, I believe that I am well placed to speak up for and deliver for Ripon.”

Robin Burgess, Green Party

Robin Burgess will stand for the Green Party in the division.

Mr Burgess lives in Ripon and manages the IT infrastructure at a scientific electronics company.

He said got interested in politics while at school in Knaresborough and believes in the “societal value of political participation”.

On why he is standing, Mr Burgess said:

“As a councillor, my goal will be to represent the interests of the people of Ripon and ensure that they have access to the public services they need in an environment that supports their health and wellbeing. 

“I am standing as a Green Party candidate because they are the only party that shares my commitment to protecting our planet whilst promoting a fairer society for everyone.”

Sid Hawke, Independent

Sid Hawke will be standing as an independent candidate in the division.

Mr Hawke, who lives in Ripon, currently represents the area on Harrogate Borough Council which he was elected to in 2018.

He also sits as a councillor on Ripon City Council.

On why he is standing for the new North Yorkshire Council, Mr Hawke said:

“I have lived in Ripon all my life and I am seeking election as an Independent because I believe in standing up for local residents rather than a political party.

“Ripon needs to see greater investment in our roads and pavements many of which are a disgrace and have been neglected by the Conservatives who take Ripon for granted.

“We need to see a significant improvement in the policing of our city and a provision of greater opportunities for the youth of Ripon.

“I am strongly opposed to the building of 1300 homes on the Claro Barracks which I believe will bring traffic gridlock to Ripon, we need a much more balanced use of this site.”

Barbara Brodigan, Liberal Democrat

The Liberal Democrat candidate for the division is Barbara Brodigan.

Ms Brodigan lives in Ripon and is a trained teacher who currently works as an education consultant, managing educational partnerships between schools, colleges and universities across Europe.

She founded the Ripon Spa Residents Action Group, which campaigns for a sustainable and improved road infrastructure ahead of the development of Ripon barracks.

She also campaign against overdevelopment, believing that the “fabric of the ancient city should be preserved and maintained for residents and visitors”.

Election 2022: Ouseburn candidate preview

Ahead of polling day on May 5, the Stray Ferret will be previewing each of the divisions in the Harrogate district up for election to North Yorkshire Council.

A total of 21 seats will be up for grabs in the district with most of the major parties contesting each one.

Today, we look at the Ouseburn division which will see two candidates standing for election.

Richard Musgrave, Conservative

Richard Musgrave will be the Conservative candidate for the Ouseburn division on North Yorkshire Council.

Mr Musgrave is currently the councillor for the Escrick Division on North Yorkshire County Council.

The Stray Ferret asked Mr Musgrave for comment for this preview, but did not receive a response by the time of publication.

A Conservative party spokesperson told the Local Democracy Reporting Service that they were confident in their election campaign and pledged to continue investing in services across North Yorkshire if elected.

A party spokesperson said:

“The Conservatives are fielding an experienced slate of candidates. This is important as we argue the case for local services with settlements from Selby to Richmond and Whitby to Settle.

“That case includes continued investment in local services that has seen a new pool in Ripon and the start of a new pool and leisure centre in Knaresborough.

“We are investing in the Hydro to provide more leisure facilities for local people.

“We need to continue the investment in our conference centre adapting it to the modern conference and exhibition industry. The centre underpins thousands of jobs across the district and brings in an estimated £29m to the local economy.”

Arnold Warneken, Green Party

Arnold Warneken is the Green Party candidate for the Ouseburn division on North Yorkshire Council.

Mr Warneken has lived in Ainsty for 40 years and was the councillor for Marston Moor on Harrogate Borough Council in the 1980s.

He said he joined the Green Party as it “recognises the need for social and environmental justice”.

On standing for North Yorkshire Council, Mr Warneken said:

“I joined the Green Party because it recognises the need for social and environmental justice, through the empowerment of local communities, with positive solutions to the issues that challenge human survival.

“I am active throughout the year organising food parcels via Ainsty Community Larder, medicines deliveries, and transport for residents. I support road safety measures such as 20’s Plenty and better recycling facilities, and I have personally emptied overflowing dog-poo bins. I have also distributed 300 recycling bags & boxes to residents.

“I have a proven track record of getting things done as a volunteer so that I can achieve so much more as a county councillor.”

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Election 2022: Boroughbridge and Claro candidate preview

Ahead of polling day on May 5, the Stray Ferret will be previewing each of the divisions in the Harrogate district up for election to North Yorkshire Council.

A total of 21 seats will be up for grabs in the district with most of the major parties contesting each one.

Today, we look at the Boroughbridge and Claro division which will see five candidates standing for election.

Robert Windass, Conservative

Robert Windass is the Conservative candidate for the Boroughbridge and Claro division.

Mr Windass currently sits as a councillor on Harrogate Borough Council and represents the area on the authority.

The Stray Ferret asked Mr Harrison for comment for this preview, but did not receive a response by the time of publication.

A Conservative party spokesperson told the Local Democracy Reporting Service that they were confident in their election campaign and pledged to continue investing in services across North Yorkshire if elected.

A party spokesperson said:

“The Conservatives are fielding an experienced slate of candidates. This is important as we argue the case for local services with settlements from Selby to Richmond and Whitby to Settle.

“That case includes continued investment in local services that has seen a new pool in Ripon and the start of a new pool and leisure centre in Knaresborough.

“We are investing in the Hydro to provide more leisure facilities for local people.

“We need to continue the investment in our conference centre adapting it to the modern conference and exhibition industry. The centre underpins thousands of jobs across the district and brings in an estimated £29m to the local economy.”

Clark Pearson, Green Party

Clark Pearson is the green Party division on May 5.

Mr Pearson has lived in Knaresborough for the last 10 years. He has an interest in geography and architecture.

He said he was standing as he wants to protect the area from the climate emergency.

Mr Pearson said:

“It is one of the most picturesque places I know. With that in mind, why are we ruining, Knaresborough, Britain, and the world? 

“The planet is suffocating under a blanket of plastic and being warmed by a thermal insulation of CO2, all caused by this selfish animal we call humans.”

Jon Starkey, Independent

Jon Starkey will be standing as an independent candidate in Boroughbridge and Claro division.

Mr Starkey lives in Boroughbridge and is self-employed, working in event sound, lighting and audio visual.

He said his priorities for standing include lower council tax, tackling litter and fly-tipping, improving bus services, stopping major housing developments and improving accountability of councillors.

He said:

“I am a non-political candidate who is not governed or regulated by the policies of the national parties, consequently,

“I can better represent the interests and the residents of the area by saying exactly what I think without the need to tow the party line, and bring a whole new common sense attitude to local government.”

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Andrew Bell, Liberal Democrat

Andrew Bell will be the Liberal Democrat candidate for Boroughbridge and Claro division.

Mr Bell, who lives in Knaresborough, said he is standing to tackle environmental issues and “improve the area”.

He set up Knaresborough Wombles, a group which litter picking group in the town.

Mr Bell said:

“I believe that we need to see a significant improvement in recycling rates, significantly increased electric car charging points, improvements to house building standards and introduction of local renewable energy schemes such as more local hydroelectric generating schemes.

“It important that the county council does more to support improved high street economies for towns such as Boroughbridge.”

Noel Evans, Independent

Noel Evans will be standing as an independent candidate in the division.

Mr Evans, who lives in Goldsborough, said he was standing after having “direct dealings” with Harrogate Borough Council over a planning matter.

He said:

“I put myself forward having seen, first-hand through direct dealings with the Council on a local planning matter, how council officials and councillors (of both parties) are entirely focussed on matters deemed ‘important’ for the council with total disregard for the residents of the area, who as council-taxpayers pay their wages and allowances and vote to keep them in office.

“The new North Yorkshire Council needs a new start with new people. And local decision making rather than influence from national political parties. We need independent councillors.”

However, Mr Evans added that he had would also be urging people to vote for Mr Starkey as two independents stand in the division.

He said he was doing this because the area needed “independent and local decisions made for the ward by a councillor living in the ward”.

Election 2022: Spofforth with Lower Wharfedale and Tockwith candidate preview

Ahead of polling day on May 5, the Stray Ferret is previewing each of the divisions in the Harrogate district up for election to North Yorkshire Council.

A total of 21 seats will be up for grabs in the district with most of the major parties contesting each one.

Today, we look at the Spofforth with Lower Wharfedale and Tockwith division which will see three candidates standing for election.

Andrew Paraskos, Conservative

The Conservative candidate for the Spofforth with Lower Wharfedale and Tockwith division is Andrew Paraskos.

Mr Paraskos is currently the Spofforth With Lower Wharefdale councillor on Harrogate Borough Council. He also sits on North Yorkshire County Council.

The Stray Ferret asked Mr Paraskos for comment for this preview, but did not receive a response by the time of publication.

A Conservative party spokesperson told the Local Democracy Reporting Service that they were confident in their election campaign and pledged to continue investing in services across North Yorkshire if elected.

A party spokesperson said:

“The Conservatives are fielding an experienced slate of candidates. This is important as we argue the case for local services with settlements from Selby to Richmond and Whitby to Settle.

“That case includes continued investment in local services that has seen a new pool in Ripon and the start of a new pool and leisure centre in Knaresborough.

“We are investing in the Hydro to provide more leisure facilities for local people.

“We need to continue the investment in our conference centre adapting it to the modern conference and exhibition industry. The centre underpins thousands of jobs across the district and brings in an estimated £29m to the local economy.”

Alexandra Marsh, Green Party

Alexandra Marsh is the Green Party candidate for the division on May 5.

Ms Marsh has lived in Cowthorpe for 35 years and runs an organic food business.

She is semi-retired and is currently responsible financial officer for Tockwith with Wilstop Parish Council. 

On why she is standing for North Yorkshire Council, Ms Marsh said:

“I want the new NY Council to better support our rural communities, particularly our most vulnerable residents and our hard-hit small businesses, whilst reducing North Yorkshire’s carbon footprint as a matter of urgency. 

“The Green Party is the only Party genuinely committed to safeguarding life on this very special planet.”

John Hall, Yorkshire Party

John Hall will be standing for the Yorkshire Party in the division on election day.

Mr Hall lives in Follifoot village near Harrogate and ran his own business for 30 years. 

Between work and family time, he also taught cycling proficiency in local schools.

Mr Hall believes that Yorkshire should have “proper, powerful devolution through a regional parliament” in order to tackle issues such as transport.

He said:

“I support green transport and more rail-links. North Yorkshire’s bid for £116 million to fund bus improvements has been denied by Westminster. We’ll keep getting nothing until Yorkshire has proper, powerful devolution through a regional parliament.

“We have the same population as Scotland, an economy 50% larger than Wales, yet the rights and funding of neither.

“Local agriculture needs support during these difficult times but, like so many of Yorkshire’s past industries, Westminster does nothing to help.”

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Election 2022: Killinghall, Hampsthwaite and Saltergate candidate preview

Ahead of polling day on May 5, the Stray Ferret is previewing each of the divisions in the Harrogate district up for election to North Yorkshire Council.

A total of 21 seats will be up for grabs in the district with most of the major parties contesting each one.

Today, we look at the Killinghall, Hampsthwaite and Saltergate division which will see four candidates standing for election.

Michael Harrison, Conservative

The Conservative candidate for the division is Michael Harrison.

Mr Harrison currently sits on both Harrogate Borough Council and North Yorkshire County Council as a councillor.

He is also the executive member for adult services and health integration on the county council.

On why he is standing, Mr Harrison said:

“I am the only candidate who lives in the Killinghall, Hampsthwaite & Saltergate electoral division.

“I have represented the area for 20 years as a parish, borough and county councillor. I have a track record of working all year round, not just at election time and will help deliver the new council for North Yorkshire if given the opportunity on May 5.”

Bill Rigby, Green Party

Bill Rigby is the Green Party candidate for Killinghall, Hampsthwaite and Saltergate division.

Mr Rigby lives in Knaresborough with his family and became the first Green Party mayor of the town in 2016.

He worked as a consultant and teacher in eduction and set up a university in East Africa.

He said he spent his working life “fixing” things and feels this experience will help him being a councillor.

Mr Rigby said:

“It has become apparent that our society needs ‘fixing’, but the problems run deep, so the mending process involves us all working together, in harmony, with an eye on a common goal. 

“I feel my experience is just right to help our district succeed in this endeavour. Old methods and ‘business as usual’ have led us in the wrong direction. 

“I am now convinced that Green values and principles offer the best route to a happier future, not only for ourselves but also for all our companions and fellow creatures.”

Edward Clayson, Labour

The Labour candidate for the division is Edward Clayson.

Mr Clayson is a mental health nurse in the NHS and has lived and worked in Harrogate for 30 years.

He is currently branch secretary for the Harrogate Labour Party and has been a member for the past decade.

Mr Clayson said, if elected, his aim would be to get a “fair and equitable” service from the council for all.

He said:

“I am passionate about the NHS and, in particular, trying to improve mental health services in the Harrogate district

“I have been involved in local campaigns, including the Save Nidd Gorge campaign and also have campaigned for a mental health services.

“If elected for North Yorkshire County Council, I will work in the best interests of all residents in this ward hoping to ensure a fair and equitable service from the council to all.”

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David Goode, Liberal Democrat

David Goode is the Liberal Democrat candidate for the division on election day.

A Knaresborough resident for 30 years, Mr Goode is currently a councillor on North Yorkshire County Council and Knaresborough Town Council.

He is also a member of Knaresborough Connectors, Community Land Trust and Chair of Governors at Aspin Park Academy school.

During his working life, he worked as an IT consultant and sales and marketing specialist. He has since retired.

Mr Goode said, if elected, he would help establish stronger rural and urban communities.

He said:

“Through NYCC Locality Fund I have supported the establishment of a new youth group for 7-to-11-year olds, provided funding to set up community gardening projects, helped fund two defibrillators in the town and in partnership with Knaresborough Connectors helped fund laptops for school children during the pandemic. 

“The key to establishing stronger urban and rural communities is the provision of affordable public transport – subsidised – fairer integrated ticketing between bus companies and rail with integrated timetables between bus companies and rail.”

Election 2022: Pateley Bridge and Nidderdale candidate preview

Ahead of polling day on May 5, the Stray Ferret is previewing each of the divisions in the Harrogate district up for election to North Yorkshire Council.

A total of 21 seats will be up for grabs in the district with most of the major parties contesting each one.

Today, we look at the Pateley Bridge and Nidderdale division which will see three candidates standing for election.

Stanley Lumley, Pateley Bridge

Stanley Lumley will be the Conservative candidate for Pateley Bridge and Nidderdale on May 5.

A lifelong resident of Nidderdale, Mr Lumley represents the area on both Harrogate Borough Council and North Yorkshire County Council.

He is also the cabinet member for culture, tourism and sport on the borough council.

Mr Lumley said:

“I am a life-long resident in Nidderdale and I am standing because I am passionate about the people and the place I live. 

“I am proud to represent my community and I hope to be able to continue serving all residents on the new North Yorkshire Council regardless of their political persuasion. 

“This is the most important election in local government for almost 50 years, the new council will need experienced and capable councillors to ensure equality for all and strong representation.”

Alison Harris, Yorkshire Party

Alison Harris is the candidate for the Yorkshire Party in Pateley Bridge and Nidderdale.

Ms Harris is a retired Harrogate resident who  formerly worked in further education and for Barnsley Education Welfare Service.

On why she is standing, she said:

“I want more affordable housing built, with support for social and council housing from a devolved Yorkshire authority.

“Transport needs an overhaul: train services across the Pennines and to the east need vast improvement and country bus services should be expanded. Making public transport attractive and cheaper would go a long way to creating better environmental conditions.

“I support efforts to lessen our carbon footprint, including greener homes and an educational focus on green technologies.”

Andrew Murday, Liberal Democrat

Andrew Murday will be standing for the Liberal Democrats at the election on May 5.

Mr Murday lives in Glasshouses and and worked as a heart surgeon for most of his professional life.

He has also been a member of Bewerley Parish Council for the last three years.

 

He said:

“Nidderdale is one of the most beautiful places in the country. But rural areas are not without real problems; transport, affordable housing, an ageing population and the rest.

“Both Harrogate Borough Council and North Yorkshire County Council are run by a tired group of Conservatives who are beholden to a tired Conservative government. They have been there so long they now take our votes for granted.

“The change in the structure of local government now taking place in our region make these elections more important than ever. The time is ripe for new Liberal Democrat ideas based on the principals of liberty, equality and community and in which there is equal opportunity for all.”

Read more:

 

Election 2022: Harlow and St George’s candidate preview

Ahead of polling day on May 5, the Stray Ferret is previewing each of the divisions in the Harrogate district up for election to North Yorkshire Council.

A total of 21 seats will be up for grabs in the district with most of the major parties contesting each one.

Today, we look at the Harlow and St George’s division, which will see five candidates standing for election.

Steven Jackson, Conservative

Steven Jackson is the Conservative candidate for the Harlow and St George’s division.

Mr Jackson is currently a councillor on Harrogate Borough Council and represents the Harrogate Saltergate ward.

He chairs the council’s audit and governance committee.

When asked why he was standing for North Yorkshire Council, Mr Jackson said:

“As an experienced councillor, I can demonstrate a track record of delivering for residents. Whether the issue is housing, development, traffic, crime or the local economy, I always fight for my constituents.

“Living in the ward myself, I have established strong relationships with local residents and community groups, and I am passionate about ensuring our local area is the best it can be.”

He added:

“Outside politics I work to regenerate brownfield land, and I believe that the skills I have developed can be used working on a key issue in our area – ensuring that we have sustainable, environmentally friendly, infrastructure led development, which protects what makes our town a great place to live. I promise to scrutinise any development in our area and ensure that local people’s views are heard.

“If elected, I promise to continue working all year round and to support all residents, irrespective of political allegiance.”

Andrew Rickard, Green Party

The Green Party candidate for the division is Andrew Rickard.

Mr Rickard has lived in Harrogate for 15 years and in the Harlow and St George’s area for the last decade.

He currently runs a consultancy business providing financial advice to businesses and was recently the chair of Harrogate and District Round Table. He is also chair of the Harrogate Green Party and is a scout and rugby coach.

On why he is standing, Mr Rickard said:

“I’m standing in this election because of the frustration of seeing the growing disconnect between the common sense views of local residents and the divisive direction and decision making of those apparently in control. 

“I will use my extensive experience of managing and chairing businesses and community groups to reverse the flow of power – local government decision making must reflect the views of the local people it represents.”

He added:

“I believe I will make a good councillor because of my business experience, my community engagement and my local knowledge and connections through raising a family here.”

Sarah Hart, Independent

Sarah Hart will be standing as an independent candidate for Harlow and St George’s division.

A business owner and resident in the division area, Ms Hart said she and the other independent candidates wanted to make a difference on the new authority.

Speaking in a personal capacity, she said she felt there was a “lack of transparency” in local politics and wanted to “facilitate genuine community engagement with local groups, businesses and residents”.

Among her priorities would be to fix roads and pavements, stop the Otley Road cycle path, promote existing cycle routes and protect community green spaces.

She said:

“I will push for a circular economy, and support shop local, which will benefit our local economy.

“I recognise we are a tourist town, but for too long it seems tourists have been a priority over the residents and businesses, this needs to change.

“I recognise the lack of secure affordable homes for local people and co-founded Harrogate Community Land Trust to address this problem, which is a not-for-profit, community led organisation. I also volunteer at Resurrected Bites, a fantastic charity that is helping families with the cost of living crisis and stopping food waste going to landfill.”

She added that she would also push for a review of the Harrogate district Local Plan 2014-35, recognise the climate emergency and work with schools to ease congestion.

John Adams, Labour

John Adams is standing for the Labour Party in the Harlow and St George’s division.

Mr Adams is a retired university professor and has lived in Harrogate for the last 17 years.

His grandfather was Labour MP for South Hammersmith, William Adams.

Mr Adams has been a lifelong member of the party and says he is committed to “reducing inequality”.

He said:

“I have a commitment to reducing inequality in UK, which has deepened so much in the last decade. My professional expertise is in economics. 

“At present I am treasurer of a national charity, have chaired another, and have an MBE for services to education.”

Mr Adams added:

“Our area is relatively prosperous, compared to much of the country, but there are major issues about social housing and transport and the need for career opportunities — not just ‘jobs’ — for young people.”

Michael Schofield, Liberal Democrat

The Liberal Democrat candidate for Harlow and St George’s is Michal Schofield.

Mr Schofield was born in Harrogate and has lived in Harlow Hill on-and-off since 1982.

He is currently the landlord of the Shepherd’s Dog pub on Otley Road, which he runs with his wife Donna.

He has acted the role of the Dame in Rossett School pantomimes for the last couple of years.

Mr Schofield said he felt it was important to help local schools.

He said:

“I believe it is important to see improved funding for schools.

“In addition, as local businesses continue to struggle it’s important to grow the buy local campaign so everyone is contributing to a much stronger local economy.”