Concerns about jobs, parking and over-development are among the top local issues for voters in Burnham and Highbridge as voters go to the polls this week.
Candidates out on doorsteps in the two towns say voters have been airing a number of local concerns in addition to national issues such as the economy and NHS.
Tony Lynham, pictured below, who is an independent candidate in the Highbridge & Burnham Marine ward, said: “Over development of the town with so many new flats and houses, and the lack of infrastructure to support them, keeps being mentioned on doorsteps.”
“Local people want to see more affordable bungalows, but they want more doctors surgeries and schools here too – the existing facilities are struggling to keep up with demand and with 550 more new homes planned for the Brue Farm site in Highbridge we could see the town grow by another 2,000 people in coming years. The availability of more jobs is another top local concern.”
Meanwhile, Lib Dem Burnham candidate Kate Lawson added: “Parking issues are one of the main concerns for residents in the centre of Burnham. Some want to see extra parking spaces made available, while others are keen for pedestrianisation to be introduced in the town centre. National issues, such as housing shortages and low pay, are also issues for voters here.”
Michael Clarke, a Conservative Burnham candidate, added: “Concern about traffic speeds in the town centre, especially around Oxford Street, have been mentioned several times as a local local issue. Residents want to see more measures to slow motorists’ speed down and make it safer.”
“Recent chanages to the High Street are also another top issue mentioned by residents and it’s clear that the changes need to be sorted out for the benefit and satisfaction of businesses and residents.”
The district and town council elections will be held on Thursday May 7th at the same time as the General Election.
Read the full list of local election candidates across the Burnham area here
