This is Sussex -- * TODAY (Thursday) nine Crawley seats on West Sussex County Council will be contested at the local elections. To help you decide who to vote for we asked the candidates to tell us, in no more than 100 words, what they have already done for their ward and, if elected, what they will do for it. * * Bewbush and Ifield West * Norman Aston – Ukip I joined Ukip this year and know Bewbush and Ifield West very well, living in Pease Pottage. I am born and bred in Crawley and I have seen first hand the changes taking place in these areas regarding the number of new people. Local residents must have more of a say. I will do all I can to help residents and listen to their concerns. I have always taken a close interest in local politics, the three main parties need one more party to simply put a new light on them and make some real changes. To deal with the EU and more tax cuts for the lower paid working people, your party is Ukip. Arshad Khan – Justice Party I have had burst water pipes repaired in Bewbush and forced local authorities to grit the roads. I have also urged the council to cut the grass and told the police to uphold law and order in Bewbush. If I am elected, I will stop burglaries in Bewbush. I will bring police onto the streets of Bewbush to make them safe to walk. I will tackle antisocial behaviour by punishing criminals to fit their crime. I will have more of council taxpayers' money spent on the people of Bewbush. I will prevent Bewbush becoming a concrete jungle. Lucy-Marie Nelson – Liberal Democrats I am still finding my feet in Crawley's local politics and am exploring the issues but I am yet to have concrete achievements in Bewbush and Ifield. I believe in an active society which protects the most vulnerable and gives children the best possible start in life. I also believe in Crawley and West Sussex having a well-resourced and integrated, clean and safe transport system. If elected, these would be my priorities. Chris Oxlade – Labour I have successfully fought to keep Bewbush Youth Wing open, helped ensure local families have nursery facilities, spearheaded campaigns to reduce speeding and install a new path on Hyde Drive, fought for resurfacing of pavements and roads, and kick-started improvements to the Bewbush/Ifield West bridge. My passion is facilities and activities for young people and the older generation, and will continue to campaign for better roads, bus routes and medical facilities. I will continue to help build local community groups and charities to ensure a better living environment for all in Bewbush and Ifield West. Duncan Peck – Conservative As a borough councillor already, I recently voted for the freeze on your council tax. Crawley Labour voted against this. I made sure that you did not pay more. It's wrong you should suffer more. I have also supported the restoration of Ifield Mill Pond and repairing our roads promptly. I will make sure Bewbush and Ifield West residents' concerns are now finally put on the agenda at full council. Jobs, security and good performing schools are priorities, and I will be a councillor who is active and supportive. I want you to approach me with issues. It is what concerns you that concerns me. * Broadfield * Mia Bristow – Ukip I have lived in Broadfield all of my life and live with my partner and two young children aged ten and five. I am well known within the area and have put myself forward as I want to help improve Broadfield and what it has to offer. I will talk with residents about ideas, issues or problems within the area, whether it's to do with lack of parks for the children, poor pathways, parking including the stadium or street lighting. The list goes on, I want to act upon these issues and get results. Lee Gilroy – Conservative I have campaigned and successfully secured £300,000 for the improvements to Broadfield Barton, assisted in setting up community groups in the area, supported youth projects, campaigned against street drinking and a zero tolerance of this and helped start up Friends of Broadfield Park and Crawley's first independent youth club "Escape". I am chair of Broadfield Community Centre and a governor at Broadfield East Junior School. If I am elected, Broadfield will be represented by a councillor who is in touch with real life. I will fight to protect services for the elderly, the vulnerable and work with community groups to improve youth services in Broadfield. Derek Isaacs – Socialist Labour Party All three major parties, believe in cutbacks in welfare and benefits for the very poor, sick and unemployed. It was the very greedy financiers who got us into this crisis, not the poor or the unemployed. We should make them pay to bail this country out of this recession. The greatest asset any country has is its people. By voting for me, you won't get all we need as ordinary people. But it will be a step in the right direction. Brian Quinn – Labour I have lived in Selsey Road, Broadfield, for 38 years. I am the founder of Broadfield Residents' Association (1976), which is still going strong as Broadfield Residents Talk Broadfield. I fought for over a year to reinstate the post office at Broadfield Barton, and I'm also a key figure in Broadfield Steering Group for the upgrading of Broadfield Barton. I have had several meetings with WSCC highways to install a pedestrian crossing at Pelham Place to the Barton to improve safety from Seymour School, and if elected will fight hard for a crossing at Vulcan Close for Broadfield East School.I am a lively local figure, proud to serve Broadfield. Keith Sunderland – Liberal Democrats I worked in Crawley before Broadfield was built. I am concerned that local people should take advantage of the opportunities offered under the Localism Act to take control of their own area. The county council is very keen for local involvement and I would be a champion for this engagement. Broadfield has a lot of people in severe difficulties and I am very keen to make sure that the more needy people are helped to be able to see themselves as useful members of society, rather than a drain on it. * Gossops Green and Ifield East * Greg Collins – Liberal Democrats I married a girl from Gossops Green! I may live in Horsham but I grew up in Crawley and have family and friends in the ward. I'm a passionate believer in democracy and that's why I am standing; to ensure that those people who want to support liberal democracy can do so. I would represent everyone in the ward, regardless of which political party they support, to ensure that the county council actively addresses the issues of concern to the local community and does not simply follow a party political agenda. Iain Dickson – Green I live in this ward and work at a local college so I am well aware of the effects of cuts in Government and local authority expenditure. Having been active in local youth work, I am particularly disappointed by the recent youth service cuts in centre work and Connexions. I want to see more affordable housing for Crawley and to strengthen the community by developing sustainable local initiatives and enterprises. If elected, I will campaign to protect and improve public services so that people can rely on them and be proud of them once again. Sue Mullins – Labour I was born in Crawley and am married to borough councillor Chris Mullins. I've lived in Gossops Green for 32 years working with various campaigns on youth provision and education. As a Crawley teacher for 40 years and a past school governor, my passion for education and drive to ensure local schools get a fair deal will mean local residents gain a powerful voice. Too many Gossops Green and Ifield roads are filled with potholes, and pavements are falling into disrepair. I pledge to put pressure on the council to ensure the area gets its fair share of investment. Ken Trussell – Conservative As cabinet member for the environment at Crawley Borough Council, my responsibilities include waste and recycling collection, grass cutting and street cleaning, environmental improvements, parking on grass verges and the restoration of the Mill Pond – all of which are of real importance to and impact on residents in the ward. I would look to represent all residents of the ward at county council level. I would also use my connections and experience with West Sussex County Council to lobby and pursue a more sustainable approach with regard to improving the standard of roads in the ward to include potholes. Stephen Wade – Ukip Over the past few years I have campaigned tirelessly to have a voice in local affairs that is independent from Labour and the Conservatives. A voice that actually listens to the community instead of listening to the whips of their parties. A voice that gets people engaged with local politics. I will continue to listen to residents on views such as public services being squeezed by unchecked immigration and red tape, ease burdens on local businesses and enterprise, and tackle our local road network. More police on the beat and cuts to wasteful councillor allowances and excessive salaries are also priorities. * Langley Green and West Green * Peter Brent – Ukip After moving to Langley Green when I left the Royal Navy, I was employed locally until I retired. I was an NTC officer with TS Tudor Rose, Langley Green's unit. I am a member of two local societies, and take a keen interest in local affairs. I would welcome the chance to represent my electors' views at county level in respect of local matters. Recent reports and correspondence regarding county responsibilities reflect a lack of consideration for local electors who foot the bills and live with the consequences. It should be possible to improve this. Vanessa Cumper – Conservative I supported residents by campaigning on their behalf and innovatively created opportunities. The closure of West Green's surgery impacted greatly on local people. I continue to work towards ensuring residents of West Green have access to primary care within West Green. I continue to report potholes. Residents contacted me about Snell Hatch's remembrance book, which has now been turned around to be viewed when doors are locked. I persuaded K2 to host Ben Jones's boxing match. I try to support different age ranges and young people struggling to find work. I created Crawley STEMfest to show how talented our local people are. I have also worked on our friendship link with Dorsten and further links with other countries to benefit us all. Kevin Osborne – Liberal Democrats I am standing in this ward to ensure people have the opportunity to vote Liberal Democrat. If I am elected, potholes are number one for me. I will also make sure cracked pavements are repaired and that street lighting is improved. Education and children's services, for which West Sussex do not always get strong reports, are important because we need to look after children in care. Brenda Smith – Labour I have been a county councillor since 2009 and have been working hard in Langley Green and West Green on issues large and small – from successfully campaigning for the new Langley Green Primary School to supporting the move of the new youth centre to Stagelands. I have campaigned to get a fair deal for local residents. I have successfully fought for a new pedestrian crossing on Ifield Avenue and worked hard to ensure West Sussex County Council invests more in road and pavement maintenance. * Maidenbower * Bob Lanzer – Conservative I have implemented a traffic management study along Station Hill and Billinton Drive to find better solutions, beyond chicanes, for motorists, cyclists and pedestrians. I have secured funding for Maidenbower Pavilion and traffic calming and safety improvements along Worth Road. A new controlled parking zone is coming on roads leading up from Three Bridges station. I will provide effective representation for constituents and continue addressing the issue of inconsiderate commuter parking. I will ensure effective road and street scene maintenance. I will promote more Let's FACE It! clear-up events and make sure that the division receives its fair share of investment. I will improve traffic management methods on Station Hill and Billinton Drive. Ben Liles – Green I have lived in Crawley for 15 years with my partner and two young children and I am acutely aware of the pressures on families through a lack of affordable housing and relatively low wages. As an emergency services worker I have direct experience of how reductions in staffing and equipment can reduce safety and response times. Government policies will make millions of people poorer and more afraid. Only the Green Party is focused on the needs of local people and not big business, serious about giving power to local people to address those needs, serious about living sustainably and committed to attracting new industry to the town to reduce its dependence on Gatwick. Simon Mizzi – Ukip Did not respond. Bill Morrison – Liberal Democrats If elected, I will communicate regularly with the voters of Maidenbower, make myself easily available to them and seek their views on issues concerning the area. Peter Smith – Labour I have worked to get West Sussex to repair potholes and for more sustainable transport, including cycling and bus service improvements. I supported the kick-off meeting of the social club and have attended most of the East Crawley CLC meetings scrutinising county council activity in Maidenbower. I will campaign to improve the cleanliness of our neighbourhood and for improvements to our environment including tree and wildflower verge planting. I will fight cuts to our youth services. I will speak up for Maidenbower residents and consult via the Maidenbower Forum and organise public forum meetings. * Northgate and Three Bridges * Bob Burgess – Conservative I have helped set up a forum in Northgate, continued working with Three Bridges Forum and secured funding for community activities. I have worked closely with officers on local issues, pressed to have potholes repaired, promoted community involvement, helped residents with issues and worked with local schools. I will engage with residents ensuring they have a voice, champion community efforts and support community activity applications. I will help residents with issues, promote Northgate and Three Bridges at county level, continue to engage with local schools and continue working with officers to achieve a better environment for residents. Peter Lamb – Labour Councillors should be hands-on in pushing for improvements for their area. As a borough councillor in Northgate I have campaigned to keep the local surgery in Northgate, fought against over-development, helped set up and support the local residents' group Northgate Matters, and pushed hard for residential improvements. Crawley's wards deserve their fair share of investment from county and I'll fight to get it. Bits of Three Bridges have seen temporary repair after repair without anyone ever tackling the root of the problem. We can't make money out of thin air but we can stop the waste. David Anderson – Lib Dems This is the first time I have stood as a candidate. My focus will be on the continued provision of local services within the ward, especially the maintenance of roads, flow of traffic and control of parking. I will ensure development planning respects the countryside nature of the area, facilitates residential improvements, provides employment and maintains educational standards and opportunities. Andrew Gill – Ukip I have not been a councillor before but I have done voluntary work for charities for many years. I will promote local referendums to decide major issues. I will see that antisocial neighbours are dealt with effectively. On immigration I will ensure that our voters' well-being is preserved in the face of the expected flood from Eastern Europe. * Pound Hill and Worth * Richard Burrett – Conservative As the local county councillor for the past four years, I have consistently worked hard to improve the residential environment of Pound Hill and Worth. I have worked with residents to address concerns about speeding and inappropriate parking, achieving effective solutions which have the support of local people. If re-elected I will continue this work, along with supporting our Conservative-controlled county council in providing efficient, value-for-money services, while keeping council tax as low as possible. I will also press for increased investment in local roads and improvements to the speed and quality of pothole repairs. Graham Knight – Liberal Democrats This is the first time I've asked the Crawley community to support me at the ballot box. I have a record of achievement as a councillor, from successful individual residents' casework, to providing community facilities. My record in Crawley was as an employer, supporting my staff and families when the need arose, cutting through red tape. If elected I'll work hard for the community to make sure it benefits from my core Lib Dem belief in people, helping them achieve their full potential. As an engineer, I see problems as solvable and find ways to achieve positive results. Susi Liles – Green As a nurse I am only too well aware of the effects of the loss of over 5,000 frontline nursing posts since 2010. This inevitably has an impact on patient care. I am concerned too by delays in social services supplying care packages to enable people to return home from hospital. Tory/Lib Dem welfare changes take from the poorest and most disadvantaged while rewarding millionaires with tax cuts. I want a national programme of home insulation to create thousands of jobs, stop older people and the vulnerable suffering in the cold, and save energy. Vote Green to end government by greed and replace it with government by need. John MacCanna – Ukip Over the last five years I have been working on building support and organised the local branch of Ukip. I have listened to people's concerns and the problems within the ward and helped people to engage with local communities and politics. I look forward to the challenges of encouraging local shops and businesses by lowering parking charges. The town has lost many shops and business over the two years. In dealing with the problems of potholes, I would advocate renewing the roads and not just the temporary filling in of holes after harsh winters. This has a cost advantage over the long term. David Shreeves – Labour I have been involved in local decision making on various items from new school academies to highways. I have a passion for youth provision and have been a chair of a Crawley youth centre and will campaign for better youth provision in the area. Pound Hill is a great place to live but with child poverty increasing to record levels, merging local Sure Start centres should be reversed to ensure support for young families is increased not cut. * Southgate and Crawley Central * Howard Bloom – Conservative I have supported greater efficiencies in our local services. As both borough and county councillor for Southgate I have offered a seamless service supporting residents in planning applications, road and housing issues. I supported the creation of the new Southgate Forum and attend their meetings and support the Friends of Goffs Park on their committee and events. I am committed to maintain frontline services, especially in social care and health. I support the new conservation areas in Southgate and will respect the result of the consultation on their proposed extension later this year. I will continue to support local residents in issues of concern in Southgate including speeding in Downland Drive and parking problems relating to football matches. Michael Jones – Labour I led a review which has recommended effective action to address the issue of Southgate residents near Broadfield Stadium suffering disruption from match-day parking. I also led calls for Malthouse Road and East Park residents to be given the precise conservation area they told the council they wanted. I'll campaign to address wider parking problems in Southgate and press for action on the potholes in our streets, caused by penny-pinching, quick-fix repairs. I will campaign for a new fire station for Crawley, now long overdue. I will also demand the pedestrian crossing to Southgate Medical Centre is put in without delay, as this is a major local concern. Malcolm Liles – Green As a candidate who lives and works in Southgate, I have campaigned on planning, environmental and transport issues in the ward. I am particularly concerned about the effects of irrational cuts in the welfare budget and the way in which young working families are being hit by reductions in tax credits. Representing the Green Party I want to give power back to people; planning decisions should benefit the local community. I will make streets safer where we shop, work and live, and improve local transport. I will improve green spaces and the environment, and make housing better, genuinely affordable and cost efficient. I will rebuild people's trust in local politics. David Matthews – Ukip For a long time now, I have listened to people bemoaning the fact that there is a lack of affordable housing in Crawley, and that the council waiting list is far too long. Also, people are complaining about the poor condition of roads within the borough, and the lack of cheaper parking, especially within the town centre. Also people have distanced themselves from politics, and I have tried to impress upon the electorate that there is a credible alternative to Labour and Conservative. The views of the people of Crawley are of paramount importance, and I shall carry on listening and endeavour to engage people who reside in the town and impress upon them that they do have a say in what happens in their town. Tony Millson – Liberal Democrats Crawley's residential roads are in a very poor state. I have reported a number of potholes to the county council and have been told that they will be repaired shortly. If elected, I will conduct a full survey of roads in Southgate and Crawley Central and press the council for a programme of proper repairs. I will approach other services in the same way, first identifying what is important to local people and then pressing for action. * Tilgate and Furnace Green * Duncan Crow – Conservative As councillor for the last eight years, I have enabled major regeneration at Furnace Parade and Tilgate Parade, and flood prevention work from Tilgate Park downstream to Waterlea Meadow. I have consulted on speed limits and ensured several local roads will be resurfaced soon, including Weald Drive and Furnace Drive. I will continue to work hard for everyone and am the only candidate to have published a detailed four-year action plan for Tilgate and Furnace Green. This includes major investment in road resurfacing and pavement renewals, more parking provision schemes, preserving our green environment and improving facilities for children. Derek Harman – Green I have consistently stood for election in this ward and share the concerns of local residents over the cutting of services that build and strengthen a community and commit to preserving the area as a good place in which to live. With others I have campaigned against the pernicious "bedroom tax". If elected, I will fight to bring in Green Party policies which take a long-term view, protecting the most vulnerable in our community and promoting a healthy environment for all. Crawley particularly needs a larger share of county council spending on paths, roads and social infrastructure. Graham Harper – Ukip I am a former airline captain based at Gatwick Airport. With my 39 years of residence in West Sussex and Crawley, I have been listening and understanding the local community. My long experience in the airline industry gives me insight and understanding of the problems of Gatwick and Furnace Green and Tilgate. I will represent residents and their views on issues such as public services, which are being squeezed by unrestricted immigration and bureaucracy, reduce burdens on local businesses and enterprise, and tackle our local road network. I will also cut wasteful councillor allowances and excessive pay. John Lovell – Liberal Democrats As a newcomer to local politics in Crawley, I have yet to make my mark on Tilgate but I am convinced that the county council needs to target more resources to the upkeep of our roads and schools, and look after the vulnerable in our society. If elected, I would make these my priorities. Colin Moffatt – Labour Tilgate has one of the jewels in Crawley's crown, Tilgate Park. I am the husband of former Crawley MP Laura Moffatt and have been involved in various campaigns to protect the lake and the park and will ensure local residents are consulted on a proposed link from the A23 into the park. Tilgate and Furnace Green's roads have suffered from years of under investment and I will campaign hard to see that this is rectified. I have campaigned for better youth facilities and will fight to protect Tilgate Youth Wing from further cuts as well as ensuring facilities for the older generation. Richard Symonds – Independent I have ensured the BNP-minded no longer have the power, or control, to divide the community. Extreme right-wing parties have been especially strong locally, and I have fought against them with considerable success. I have ensured private developers think twice before making any land-grab of public land within the community. I will restore the funding cuts by County Hall for Crawley's Lifeline service to the elderly and disabled – and oppose the "bedroom tax" imposed by the Con/Lib Dem Government. I will ensure the BNP-minded no longer have the power to divide the community.
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This is Sussex -- * TODAY (Thursday) nine Crawley seats on West Sussex County Council will be contested at the local elections. To help you decide who to vote for we asked the candidates to tell us, in no more than 100 words, what they have already done for their ward and, if elected, what they will do for it. * * Bewbush and Ifield West * Norman Aston – Ukip I joined Ukip this year and know Bewbush and Ifield West very well, living in Pease Pottage. I am born and bred in Crawley and I have seen first hand the changes taking place in these areas regarding the number of new people. Local residents must have more of a say. I will do all I can to help residents and listen to their concerns. I have always taken a close interest in local politics, the three main parties need one more party to simply put a new light on them and make some real changes. To deal with the EU and more tax cuts for the lower paid working people, your party is Ukip. Arshad Khan – Justice Party I have had burst water pipes repaired in Bewbush and forced local authorities to grit the roads. I have also urged the council to cut the grass and told the police to uphold law and order in Bewbush. If I am elected, I will stop burglaries in Bewbush. I will bring police onto the streets of Bewbush to make them safe to walk. I will tackle antisocial behaviour by punishing criminals to fit their crime. I will have more of council taxpayers' money spent on the people of Bewbush. I will prevent Bewbush becoming a concrete jungle. Lucy-Marie Nelson – Liberal Democrats I am still finding my feet in Crawley's local politics and am exploring the issues but I am yet to have concrete achievements in Bewbush and Ifield. I believe in an active society which protects the most vulnerable and gives children the best possible start in life. I also believe in Crawley and West Sussex having a well-resourced and integrated, clean and safe transport system. If elected, these would be my priorities. Chris Oxlade – Labour I have successfully fought to keep Bewbush Youth Wing open, helped ensure local families have nursery facilities, spearheaded campaigns to reduce speeding and install a new path on Hyde Drive, fought for resurfacing of pavements and roads, and kick-started improvements to the Bewbush/Ifield West bridge. My passion is facilities and activities for young people and the older generation, and will continue to campaign for better roads, bus routes and medical facilities. I will continue to help build local community groups and charities to ensure a better living environment for all in Bewbush and Ifield West. Duncan Peck – Conservative As a borough councillor already, I recently voted for the freeze on your council tax. Crawley Labour voted against this. I made sure that you did not pay more. It's wrong you should suffer more. I have also supported the restoration of Ifield Mill Pond and repairing our roads promptly. I will make sure Bewbush and Ifield West residents' concerns are now finally put on the agenda at full council. Jobs, security and good performing schools are priorities, and I will be a councillor who is active and supportive. I want you to approach me with issues. It is what concerns you that concerns me. * Broadfield * Mia Bristow – Ukip I have lived in Broadfield all of my life and live with my partner and two young children aged ten and five. I am well known within the area and have put myself forward as I want to help improve Broadfield and what it has to offer. I will talk with residents about ideas, issues or problems within the area, whether it's to do with lack of parks for the children, poor pathways, parking including the stadium or street lighting. The list goes on, I want to act upon these issues and get results. Lee Gilroy – Conservative I have campaigned and successfully secured £300,000 for the improvements to Broadfield Barton, assisted in setting up community groups in the area, supported youth projects, campaigned against street drinking and a zero tolerance of this and helped start up Friends of Broadfield Park and Crawley's first independent youth club "Escape". I am chair of Broadfield Community Centre and a governor at Broadfield East Junior School. If I am elected, Broadfield will be represented by a councillor who is in touch with real life. I will fight to protect services for the elderly, the vulnerable and work with community groups to improve youth services in Broadfield. Derek Isaacs – Socialist Labour Party All three major parties, believe in cutbacks in welfare and benefits for the very poor, sick and unemployed. It was the very greedy financiers who got us into this crisis, not the poor or the unemployed. We should make them pay to bail this country out of this recession. The greatest asset any country has is its people. By voting for me, you won't get all we need as ordinary people. But it will be a step in the right direction. Brian Quinn – Labour I have lived in Selsey Road, Broadfield, for 38 years. I am the founder of Broadfield Residents' Association (1976), which is still going strong as Broadfield Residents Talk Broadfield. I fought for over a year to reinstate the post office at Broadfield Barton, and I'm also a key figure in Broadfield Steering Group for the upgrading of Broadfield Barton. I have had several meetings with WSCC highways to install a pedestrian crossing at Pelham Place to the Barton to improve safety from Seymour School, and if elected will fight hard for a crossing at Vulcan Close for Broadfield East School.I am a lively local figure, proud to serve Broadfield. Keith Sunderland – Liberal Democrats I worked in Crawley before Broadfield was built. I am concerned that local people should take advantage of the opportunities offered under the Localism Act to take control of their own area. The county council is very keen for local involvement and I would be a champion for this engagement. Broadfield has a lot of people in severe difficulties and I am very keen to make sure that the more needy people are helped to be able to see themselves as useful members of society, rather than a drain on it. * Gossops Green and Ifield East * Greg Collins – Liberal Democrats I married a girl from Gossops Green! I may live in Horsham but I grew up in Crawley and have family and friends in the ward. I'm a passionate believer in democracy and that's why I am standing; to ensure that those people who want to support liberal democracy can do so. I would represent everyone in the ward, regardless of which political party they support, to ensure that the county council actively addresses the issues of concern to the local community and does not simply follow a party political agenda. Iain Dickson – Green I live in this ward and work at a local college so I am well aware of the effects of cuts in Government and local authority expenditure. Having been active in local youth work, I am particularly disappointed by the recent youth service cuts in centre work and Connexions. I want to see more affordable housing for Crawley and to strengthen the community by developing sustainable local initiatives and enterprises. If elected, I will campaign to protect and improve public services so that people can rely on them and be proud of them once again. Sue Mullins – Labour I was born in Crawley and am married to borough councillor Chris Mullins. I've lived in Gossops Green for 32 years working with various campaigns on youth provision and education. As a Crawley teacher for 40 years and a past school governor, my passion for education and drive to ensure local schools get a fair deal will mean local residents gain a powerful voice. Too many Gossops Green and Ifield roads are filled with potholes, and pavements are falling into disrepair. I pledge to put pressure on the council to ensure the area gets its fair share of investment. Ken Trussell – Conservative As cabinet member for the environment at Crawley Borough Council, my responsibilities include waste and recycling collection, grass cutting and street cleaning, environmental improvements, parking on grass verges and the restoration of the Mill Pond – all of which are of real importance to and impact on residents in the ward. I would look to represent all residents of the ward at county council level. I would also use my connections and experience with West Sussex County Council to lobby and pursue a more sustainable approach with regard to improving the standard of roads in the ward to include potholes. Stephen Wade – Ukip Over the past few years I have campaigned tirelessly to have a voice in local affairs that is independent from Labour and the Conservatives. A voice that actually listens to the community instead of listening to the whips of their parties. A voice that gets people engaged with local politics. I will continue to listen to residents on views such as public services being squeezed by unchecked immigration and red tape, ease burdens on local businesses and enterprise, and tackle our local road network. More police on the beat and cuts to wasteful councillor allowances and excessive salaries are also priorities. * Langley Green and West Green * Peter Brent – Ukip After moving to Langley Green when I left the Royal Navy, I was employed locally until I retired. I was an NTC officer with TS Tudor Rose, Langley Green's unit. I am a member of two local societies, and take a keen interest in local affairs. I would welcome the chance to represent my electors' views at county level in respect of local matters. Recent reports and correspondence regarding county responsibilities reflect a lack of consideration for local electors who foot the bills and live with the consequences. It should be possible to improve this. Vanessa Cumper – Conservative I supported residents by campaigning on their behalf and innovatively created opportunities. The closure of West Green's surgery impacted greatly on local people. I continue to work towards ensuring residents of West Green have access to primary care within West Green. I continue to report potholes. Residents contacted me about Snell Hatch's remembrance book, which has now been turned around to be viewed when doors are locked. I persuaded K2 to host Ben Jones's boxing match. I try to support different age ranges and young people struggling to find work. I created Crawley STEMfest to show how talented our local people are. I have also worked on our friendship link with Dorsten and further links with other countries to benefit us all. Kevin Osborne – Liberal Democrats I am standing in this ward to ensure people have the opportunity to vote Liberal Democrat. If I am elected, potholes are number one for me. I will also make sure cracked pavements are repaired and that street lighting is improved. Education and children's services, for which West Sussex do not always get strong reports, are important because we need to look after children in care. Brenda Smith – Labour I have been a county councillor since 2009 and have been working hard in Langley Green and West Green on issues large and small – from successfully campaigning for the new Langley Green Primary School to supporting the move of the new youth centre to Stagelands. I have campaigned to get a fair deal for local residents. I have successfully fought for a new pedestrian crossing on Ifield Avenue and worked hard to ensure West Sussex County Council invests more in road and pavement maintenance. * Maidenbower * Bob Lanzer – Conservative I have implemented a traffic management study along Station Hill and Billinton Drive to find better solutions, beyond chicanes, for motorists, cyclists and pedestrians. I have secured funding for Maidenbower Pavilion and traffic calming and safety improvements along Worth Road. A new controlled parking zone is coming on roads leading up from Three Bridges station. I will provide effective representation for constituents and continue addressing the issue of inconsiderate commuter parking. I will ensure effective road and street scene maintenance. I will promote more Let's FACE It! clear-up events and make sure that the division receives its fair share of investment. I will improve traffic management methods on Station Hill and Billinton Drive. Ben Liles – Green I have lived in Crawley for 15 years with my partner and two young children and I am acutely aware of the pressures on families through a lack of affordable housing and relatively low wages. As an emergency services worker I have direct experience of how reductions in staffing and equipment can reduce safety and response times. Government policies will make millions of people poorer and more afraid. Only the Green Party is focused on the needs of local people and not big business, serious about giving power to local people to address those needs, serious about living sustainably and committed to attracting new industry to the town to reduce its dependence on Gatwick. Simon Mizzi – Ukip Did not respond. Bill Morrison – Liberal Democrats If elected, I will communicate regularly with the voters of Maidenbower, make myself easily available to them and seek their views on issues concerning the area. Peter Smith – Labour I have worked to get West Sussex to repair potholes and for more sustainable transport, including cycling and bus service improvements. I supported the kick-off meeting of the social club and have attended most of the East Crawley CLC meetings scrutinising county council activity in Maidenbower. I will campaign to improve the cleanliness of our neighbourhood and for improvements to our environment including tree and wildflower verge planting. I will fight cuts to our youth services. I will speak up for Maidenbower residents and consult via the Maidenbower Forum and organise public forum meetings. * Northgate and Three Bridges * Bob Burgess – Conservative I have helped set up a forum in Northgate, continued working with Three Bridges Forum and secured funding for community activities. I have worked closely with officers on local issues, pressed to have potholes repaired, promoted community involvement, helped residents with issues and worked with local schools. I will engage with residents ensuring they have a voice, champion community efforts and support community activity applications. I will help residents with issues, promote Northgate and Three Bridges at county level, continue to engage with local schools and continue working with officers to achieve a better environment for residents. Peter Lamb – Labour Councillors should be hands-on in pushing for improvements for their area. As a borough councillor in Northgate I have campaigned to keep the local surgery in Northgate, fought against over-development, helped set up and support the local residents' group Northgate Matters, and pushed hard for residential improvements. Crawley's wards deserve their fair share of investment from county and I'll fight to get it. Bits of Three Bridges have seen temporary repair after repair without anyone ever tackling the root of the problem. We can't make money out of thin air but we can stop the waste. David Anderson – Lib Dems This is the first time I have stood as a candidate. My focus will be on the continued provision of local services within the ward, especially the maintenance of roads, flow of traffic and control of parking. I will ensure development planning respects the countryside nature of the area, facilitates residential improvements, provides employment and maintains educational standards and opportunities. Andrew Gill – Ukip I have not been a councillor before but I have done voluntary work for charities for many years. I will promote local referendums to decide major issues. I will see that antisocial neighbours are dealt with effectively. On immigration I will ensure that our voters' well-being is preserved in the face of the expected flood from Eastern Europe. * Pound Hill and Worth * Richard Burrett – Conservative As the local county councillor for the past four years, I have consistently worked hard to improve the residential environment of Pound Hill and Worth. I have worked with residents to address concerns about speeding and inappropriate parking, achieving effective solutions which have the support of local people. If re-elected I will continue this work, along with supporting our Conservative-controlled county council in providing efficient, value-for-money services, while keeping council tax as low as possible. I will also press for increased investment in local roads and improvements to the speed and quality of pothole repairs. Graham Knight – Liberal Democrats This is the first time I've asked the Crawley community to support me at the ballot box. I have a record of achievement as a councillor, from successful individual residents' casework, to providing community facilities. My record in Crawley was as an employer, supporting my staff and families when the need arose, cutting through red tape. If elected I'll work hard for the community to make sure it benefits from my core Lib Dem belief in people, helping them achieve their full potential. As an engineer, I see problems as solvable and find ways to achieve positive results. Susi Liles – Green As a nurse I am only too well aware of the effects of the loss of over 5,000 frontline nursing posts since 2010. This inevitably has an impact on patient care. I am concerned too by delays in social services supplying care packages to enable people to return home from hospital. Tory/Lib Dem welfare changes take from the poorest and most disadvantaged while rewarding millionaires with tax cuts. I want a national programme of home insulation to create thousands of jobs, stop older people and the vulnerable suffering in the cold, and save energy. Vote Green to end government by greed and replace it with government by need. John MacCanna – Ukip Over the last five years I have been working on building support and organised the local branch of Ukip. I have listened to people's concerns and the problems within the ward and helped people to engage with local communities and politics. I look forward to the challenges of encouraging local shops and businesses by lowering parking charges. The town has lost many shops and business over the two years. In dealing with the problems of potholes, I would advocate renewing the roads and not just the temporary filling in of holes after harsh winters. This has a cost advantage over the long term. David Shreeves – Labour I have been involved in local decision making on various items from new school academies to highways. I have a passion for youth provision and have been a chair of a Crawley youth centre and will campaign for better youth provision in the area. Pound Hill is a great place to live but with child poverty increasing to record levels, merging local Sure Start centres should be reversed to ensure support for young families is increased not cut. * Southgate and Crawley Central * Howard Bloom – Conservative I have supported greater efficiencies in our local services. As both borough and county councillor for Southgate I have offered a seamless service supporting residents in planning applications, road and housing issues. I supported the creation of the new Southgate Forum and attend their meetings and support the Friends of Goffs Park on their committee and events. I am committed to maintain frontline services, especially in social care and health. I support the new conservation areas in Southgate and will respect the result of the consultation on their proposed extension later this year. I will continue to support local residents in issues of concern in Southgate including speeding in Downland Drive and parking problems relating to football matches. Michael Jones – Labour I led a review which has recommended effective action to address the issue of Southgate residents near Broadfield Stadium suffering disruption from match-day parking. I also led calls for Malthouse Road and East Park residents to be given the precise conservation area they told the council they wanted. I'll campaign to address wider parking problems in Southgate and press for action on the potholes in our streets, caused by penny-pinching, quick-fix repairs. I will campaign for a new fire station for Crawley, now long overdue. I will also demand the pedestrian crossing to Southgate Medical Centre is put in without delay, as this is a major local concern. Malcolm Liles – Green As a candidate who lives and works in Southgate, I have campaigned on planning, environmental and transport issues in the ward. I am particularly concerned about the effects of irrational cuts in the welfare budget and the way in which young working families are being hit by reductions in tax credits. Representing the Green Party I want to give power back to people; planning decisions should benefit the local community. I will make streets safer where we shop, work and live, and improve local transport. I will improve green spaces and the environment, and make housing better, genuinely affordable and cost efficient. I will rebuild people's trust in local politics. David Matthews – Ukip For a long time now, I have listened to people bemoaning the fact that there is a lack of affordable housing in Crawley, and that the council waiting list is far too long. Also, people are complaining about the poor condition of roads within the borough, and the lack of cheaper parking, especially within the town centre. Also people have distanced themselves from politics, and I have tried to impress upon the electorate that there is a credible alternative to Labour and Conservative. The views of the people of Crawley are of paramount importance, and I shall carry on listening and endeavour to engage people who reside in the town and impress upon them that they do have a say in what happens in their town. Tony Millson – Liberal Democrats Crawley's residential roads are in a very poor state. I have reported a number of potholes to the county council and have been told that they will be repaired shortly. If elected, I will conduct a full survey of roads in Southgate and Crawley Central and press the council for a programme of proper repairs. I will approach other services in the same way, first identifying what is important to local people and then pressing for action. * Tilgate and Furnace Green * Duncan Crow – Conservative As councillor for the last eight years, I have enabled major regeneration at Furnace Parade and Tilgate Parade, and flood prevention work from Tilgate Park downstream to Waterlea Meadow. I have consulted on speed limits and ensured several local roads will be resurfaced soon, including Weald Drive and Furnace Drive. I will continue to work hard for everyone and am the only candidate to have published a detailed four-year action plan for Tilgate and Furnace Green. This includes major investment in road resurfacing and pavement renewals, more parking provision schemes, preserving our green environment and improving facilities for children. Derek Harman – Green I have consistently stood for election in this ward and share the concerns of local residents over the cutting of services that build and strengthen a community and commit to preserving the area as a good place in which to live. With others I have campaigned against the pernicious "bedroom tax". If elected, I will fight to bring in Green Party policies which take a long-term view, protecting the most vulnerable in our community and promoting a healthy environment for all. Crawley particularly needs a larger share of county council spending on paths, roads and social infrastructure. Graham Harper – Ukip I am a former airline captain based at Gatwick Airport. With my 39 years of residence in West Sussex and Crawley, I have been listening and understanding the local community. My long experience in the airline industry gives me insight and understanding of the problems of Gatwick and Furnace Green and Tilgate. I will represent residents and their views on issues such as public services, which are being squeezed by unrestricted immigration and bureaucracy, reduce burdens on local businesses and enterprise, and tackle our local road network. I will also cut wasteful councillor allowances and excessive pay. John Lovell – Liberal Democrats As a newcomer to local politics in Crawley, I have yet to make my mark on Tilgate but I am convinced that the county council needs to target more resources to the upkeep of our roads and schools, and look after the vulnerable in our society. If elected, I would make these my priorities. Colin Moffatt – Labour Tilgate has one of the jewels in Crawley's crown, Tilgate Park. I am the husband of former Crawley MP Laura Moffatt and have been involved in various campaigns to protect the lake and the park and will ensure local residents are consulted on a proposed link from the A23 into the park. Tilgate and Furnace Green's roads have suffered from years of under investment and I will campaign hard to see that this is rectified. I have campaigned for better youth facilities and will fight to protect Tilgate Youth Wing from further cuts as well as ensuring facilities for the older generation. Richard Symonds – Independent I have ensured the BNP-minded no longer have the power, or control, to divide the community. Extreme right-wing parties have been especially strong locally, and I have fought against them with considerable success. I have ensured private developers think twice before making any land-grab of public land within the community. I will restore the funding cuts by County Hall for Crawley's Lifeline service to the elderly and disabled – and oppose the "bedroom tax" imposed by the Con/Lib Dem Government. I will ensure the BNP-minded no longer have the power to divide the community.
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