By Jamie Waller, Local Democracy Reporter
Candidates have had their say on why residents should vote for them to fill a vacant seat on Broxtowe Borough Council.
Former Labour Councillor Richard Falvey has stepped down after being elected to represent the Attenborough and Chilwell East ward in 2023.
The by-election will be held on Thursday, May 2, the same day voters will also decide on the East Midlands Mayor and the Nottinghamshire Police & Crime Commissioner.
The Labour group currently holds a large majority on Broxtowe Borough Council, meaning the outcome of the vote won’t affect the authority’s leadership.
The candidates in alphabetical order are:
- Eric Kerry (Conservative)
- Tyler Marsh (Labour)
- Simon Roche (Liberal Democrat)
- Mary Venning (Green)
The constituency covers part of Beeston and the area around the Attenborough Nature Reserve.
It will also continue to be represented by Labour Councillors Helen Faccio and Pauline Smith.
Here is what candidates have had to say about why voters should support them.
Eric Kerry (Conservative)
“I have lived in the local area almost all my life. I am the only candidate living in the ward.
“After working at Boots for 23 years, I created my own successful Small and Medium-Sized Enterprise international business, retiring recently.
“Passionate about local politics, I am accessible 24/7, listen to people’s concerns and get things done, in casework and at Council, eg Attenborough Flood Wall, 510/536/18 buses, playgrounds.
“Reversing the Labour budget’s parking and bin charges, fighting for green belt and open space retention, area flood warden, accessible Broxtowe customer services and low Council tax are my key priorities for campaigning.”
Tyler Marsh (Labour)
“In the last year, Broxtowe Labour councillors have continued our record of keeping costs low and balancing the books without any cuts to jobs or services, whilst still delivering on our ambitious manifesto.
“I look forward to being a voice for Attenborough and Chilwell East on the council, supporting our thriving local town centre, assisting in our environmental commitments, and promoting our exciting programme of family and cultural events.
“It would be a privilege to be elected councillor for my local area and I look forward to the campaign ahead.”
Simon Roche (Liberal Democrat)
“I am a father of three and was brought up in the area, and attended Lakeview Sixth Form Centre in the ward.
“I am passionate about economics and have over 20 years of experience in investment banking.
“I love walks around Attenborough Nature Reserve and watching a spot of cricket down at the Strand (where my parents look after the wonderful plant display.)
“I am keen on preserving our environment, waterways and the green spaces that make the area such a great place to live.”
Mary Venning (Green)
“On 2nd of May, I am standing as a candidate in the by-election to give hope to people that there is another way to do things.
“My background in psychology and career guidance has made me keenly aware of the needs of people to lead a fulfilling life.
“I also care about plants and wildlife. The Beeston plant swaps were initiated by me, I support The Field rewilding project in Strelley and keep bees on my allotment.
“As a Broxtowe Borough councillor, I would work tirelessly to ensure a healthy environment for all residents.”
A by-election will also be called for the Mansfield ward of West Bank after Conservative Councillor Ben Bank announced he would step down for personal reasons.
The candidates to stand for the seat haven’t been announced yet.
Polls for the elections on May 2 will be open from 7am to 10pm.
Voters will be asked to show photographic ID at polling stations, such as a passport, driving license, blue badge or an Older Person’s Bus Pass.
If you don’t have this, you can apply for a Voter Authority Certificate by Wednesday, April 24.
You can only vote if your name is on the Register of Electors. You may need to update this if you have never voted before, moved house or changed your name since the last election.
This can be done online before Tuesday, April 16.
