With just days to go until Highbridge residents vote in a by-election for a vacant seat on Burnham and Highbridge Town Council, we profile the candidates running for the role.
Burnham-On-Sea.com has spoken to the three candidates and features them here ahead of the Highbridge by-election on Monday December 18th.
Laura Chalmers (Lib Dem)
Laura says “representing everyone in the Highbridge community and giving a voice to communities that feel voiceless are just two of my aims.”
“I love living here, there’s a sense of community, lots of groups working to make our town a better place – and we have some great local businesses,” she says.
Laura, who is disabled and uses a mobility scooter, is particularly concerned about disability access in the town, with the state of pavements being a particular concern, and she points out this issue affects many people.
“Mothers with buggies, the elderly and many more need to have everywhere accessible. This is what motivates me, speaking out for those in the community who may be feeling ignored,” she explains. Laura adds she is keen to speak out for parts of the community that feel marginalised and is particularly proud of her work with Pride On Sea, celebrating the LGBTQ+ community in Burnham and Highbridge. A keen animal lover, Laura is also keen to protect the environment around the town – and make nature accessible for all.
“I have worked as a lecturer in animal care and as the deputy manager of a dog rescue charity. I vow to promote the High Street and local businesses; support local initiatives to help those struggling with the cost of living and would like to see improved flower beds around the town.”
Alistair Hendry (Conservatives)
Alistair says: “Highbridge is a town on its own, a very special town that has friendly and homely residents who deserve all the good things available. I have served Highbridge over the past 5 and a half years on SDC and now Somerset Council.”
”My aim for the town has always been the same and never changes, listen to what people want, what they need and then produce results to bring about the safe and comfortable lifestyle they require. I work with the police crime commissioner and the current MP for the area to ensure anything that can be done will be done.”
”Apex Park is earmarked for parking charges under the local Lib Dem Council, increased housing rates for all at very high increases are looming under the Lib Dems, local services could be scaled back due to the Lib Dem Council teetering on the edge of bankruptcy within Somerset Council.”
”All of these points and much more, I would strive to fight for Highbridge. I actively raise charity money for Highbridge charities, I arranged for free laptops for local schools and local charities, I am in talks to secure disabled facilities at Highbridge train station, I am on the Highbridge Regeneration Committee with a view to enhance the town with a much needed upgrade under the levelling Up scheme. These are only a few things of relevance which I continually fight for. Highbridge deserves better, together we can achieve it. Vote Conservative for the Town Council and reap the benefits.”
Kate Pearce (Labour)
Kate says: “Highbridge has seen a lot of housing development over recent years, and new houses are still being built. The whole of Burnham-On-Sea and Highbridge needs these homes. The new homes will provide more housing for local people, and also bring more families to the area.”
“However, all those new homes need services. Where will the children go to school? Which doctors surgery will look after the people? Is the public transport good enough for them to get to work? Are there enough services for young people? And importantly, what is the recreational and cultural offering for them?”
“Highbridge Town Centre has some brilliant shops and cafes, but it could be even better. We need the Town Centre to look smarter, and to encourage people to use the local businesses.”
“If I am elected I would work with the other councillors that represent Highbridge to bring a positive vision for the town. That vision should support local people and businesses, but also improve the feel of the town.”
“An important issue is the level and quality of public transport – lack of facilities at the railway station, no buses serving the station, and a bus service that is too infrequent and does not run in the evenings.”
“I recognise that lots of people in Highbridge have limited financial resources. For me, that means that the council should fund public services, but every pound that the town spends should be effective and responsive to people’s needs.”
“The people of Highbridge are a vibrant community. There’s huge potential, good, strong energy waiting to be released. But sometimes the character of the town hasn’t had the attention it deserves. In short: Highbridge needs some Love.”
