PEOPLE in Tameside get the chance to decide who they want to represent them on the borough’s council as the area goes to the polls on Thursday, May 7.
Nationally, politics may seem more polarised with the rise of Reform UK on the right and the Green Party on the left
Many are also billing the ward results as an indication of the country’s feelings about the current Labour government.
But locally, many of the issues remain the same. Will potholes be filled? Will the bins be emptied on time? How will councillors work for my area?
Ahead of this year’s local elections, The Correspondent has asked every candidate standing to supply profiles detailing how they area and their vision for their ward.
Here is the rundown of those standing in Hyde Newton.
Peter Ball-Foster (Liberal Democrats)
I AM pleased to be asked to stand for the Liberal-Democrats in Newton.
I have lived in this area with my family since 1997 but have seen little change in that time.
We all pay our taxes, but what do we have to show for it?
We see potholes, pavements crumbling, glass, litter and dog poo everywhere.
We desperately need more social housing because so-called affordable housing is still out of reach for too many people.
Local amenities for different generations are non-existent. We do not have a doctor’s surgery. We do not have a dentist.
Existing schools are bursting to capacity. We have lost our library. Provision for parking is appalling and increased traffic is making roads dangerous for pedestrians and motorists alike.
The list goes on, yet all we hear is what they are planning to do in Ashton.
Surely it is our turn now.
Philip Fitzpatrick (Independent)
I HAVE been involved in politics for most of my adult life, and was honoured to be the Mayor of Tameside, as my father was before me.
l am still very active in the local community as the chair of the Grafton Centre in Hyde and have been involved with it for the last 16 years.
We provide a large range of activities for the over 55s, and our ethos is to defeat isolation and loneliness.
If elected, l will continue to lobby for better services for the people of Newton. l will also look carefully at any further planning applications for housing in Newton as l feel we’ve had more than our fair share built but not the infrastructure to support them.
As an independent Councillor, not affiliated to a political party, it means l will be a strong voice for you and your family.
A vote for me is a vote for experience, commitment and passion. Vote Phil Fitzpatrick on May 7.
Sam Mooney (Reform UK)
I HAVE lived in Hyde Newton for more than 48 years and as a husband, father and grandfather, my family is at the centre of everything I do.
I am standing for Reform UK for one simple reason. I want to help to pass on a better future for my grandchildren and the generations coming after them.
Having recently retired from a career as an HGV driver, I know the value of hard work and reliability.
I also hold a BSc in Physics from Queen’s University, which has given me a strong analytical approach to problem solving.
I care deeply about supporting local businesses, promoting local job opportunities and making sure young people have access to practical skills and real direction in life.
Hyde Newton and Tameside deserve representatives who are grounded, accessible and prepared to put the people of the area first.
I will be a dependable voice working to make our area better for the future.
Andrew Moss (Conservative Party)
I AM a retired member of the NHS (North West Ambulance Service) and am a public governor for the ‘council of governors’ for Tameside and Glossop integrated Care NHS Foundation Trust, representing the people of Stalybridge and Hyde.
I attend public meetings for The Partnership Engagement Network (PEN), which was set up jointly by Tameside Council and local NHS services to allow residents and organisations to have a real influence and contribution to the design, commissioning and delivery of public services in Tameside.
I have strong connections to Newton, having lived here most of my life, and try to be involved in the aspects of life that are important to local people.
I am involved with the Hyde together CIC, which is promoting growth and investment in Hyde and works closely with local businesses in order to improve our town centre.
On May 7, I would be delighted to represent you on Tameside Council and finally give the people of Newton a voice that will be listened to.
Peter Robinson (Labour and Co-Operative Party)
I AM honoured to stand in the local elections for Newton Ward.
A resident for many years, I have faced the challenges with you, working tirelessly to bring change, for example Hyde High School’s new build, where I was a governor.
As a proud member of the successful MELA in Hyde Park, I will ensure it continues to be delivered for people in Newton.
I have campaigned to bring back into use changing rooms off Victoria Street. You will soon see improvements on site, to include Hyde Young Persons Enterprise, a facility for young people.
Big improvements have been made with local transport – cheaper fares, better bus services and I have campaigned for the planned refurbishment of Flowery Field and Newton Rail Stations.
I appreciate your vote on May 7 so I can be a strong voice for Newton; to enable our community to thrive for generations to come.
Hannah Yates (Green Party)
I AM standing in the local elections to give the residents of Hyde Newton a chance to vote for real change.
Like so many others, I have become disillusioned with the two historic parties of power and the divisive mainstream media that wants us to believe our neighbours are our enemies.
I joined the Green Party last year with the hope of building a society that works for everyone – and my only regret is not doing it sooner.
I work for an animal welfare charity and believe our compassion should extend to all living beings and the environment.
I understand the very real challenges we face – with bills and household costs rising day on day while billionaires get richer in their sleep.
The Green Party is the only party standing up to powerful people and institutions on behalf of regular people like you and I.