MEET THE CANDIDATE : Christine Harrod

I have lived in Beverley for 20 years and worked here for over 30.  During that time I have seen many changes to the town, both good and bad.

Like many, I have grave concerns about the seemingly ceaseless building applications that encroach on green areas surrounding the town.  It is sadly now inevitable that housing on the South side of Beverley will proceed but it is essential that this is closely monitored to ensure the 25% of affordable housing promised in the Local Plan is built, and open leisure areas are incorporated along with adequate infrastructure.

The lack of youth facilities in Beverley is an ongoing problem.  Beverley Town Council has committed to promoting a youth coalition, allowing young people to have a say in matters that affect them but as a community we need to preserve any facilities currently available.  Any building on Longcroft school playing fields would remove yet another opportunity for the playing of sport and the reduction of anti-social behaviour amongst bored youth.

I am not a banner bearing petition organiser.  Instead I keep a keen eye out for proposals and plans by attending Town Council meetings, scrutinising and reading planning and public notices in the press.  I encounter many people in my everyday life when walking my dogs, teaching Pilates and volunteering at the East Riding Theatre, all of which gives me an insight on the views of local residents.  I already act on concerns by writing to the press or to the appropriate department at ERYCC and will continue to do so.

My decision to run a zero waste campaign was fuelled not only by lack of funds and manpower but a dislike of waste and feedback from many people who confirmed that campaign leaflets went straight in the bin.  Instead, I will donate the money earmarked for leaflets to a local charity or good cause.

I have no unrealistic expectations that one independent voice representing Beverley will effect great change. However I do hope that a single voice will lead to many more in forthcoming elections.  This would allow future decisions affecting Beverley to be made with the interest of Beverley and its resident in mind and not in line with national party policies.

Christine Harrod will be standing in St Mary’s Ward in the election to be held on 20 October 2016.