''They need shaking up': Disquiet among Tameside voters ahead of all-out election
Distrust, anger and frustration at a lack of democratic choice are among the feelings of voters in Tameside ahead of next week’s local elections. When the ballot boxes open on the morning of Thursday, May 4 it will be the first time all 57 seats on the council will be up for election for nearly 20 years.
In several wards the Conservatives – Labour’s biggest opposition group in Tameside which currently has eight members – have only fielded one candidate, despite there being three seats to win. “But it feels like that with Ashton and a lot of market towns they are taking that market element away – which is the bit we like. By the end you’ll only have half a dozen market stalls. The rent will get ramped up so much people can’t afford them, I don’t see the sense in it.
In Stalybridge, former shopkeeper Joe Bridgehouse, 78, is firm in his opinion that the Labour-run council has ‘ruined’ the town centre, citing long-standing and historic issues such as the introduction of pay-and-display parking and the demolition of the former town hall after it was destroyed by a fire in 1989.
For others, their local concerns about whether the council is doing a good job have been overridden by their desire to send a message to the current national government. Asked about Labour’s performance locally, Anthony’s perception is less positive. “Stalybridge town centre hasn’t had a penny spent on it compared to all the money they are spending in Ashton,” he says. “It’s a ghost town, Stalybridge, there is absolutely nothing. Not even a men’s shop for clothing.”
“I’m not happy with the way the council are spending money on this area,” Michael adds, indicating towards the outdoor market. “Everybody complains about it because they are doing the markets all over again with a big canopy – that’s just money down the drain. What’s wrong with the stalls as they are?
“I feel like a lot of people in politics don’t come from a working class background and it’s all false promises,” she adds. “Probably it will be national stuff, because local issues – you kind of just get on with it. Yes, there is vandalism and stuff but you just avoid those areas, and there isn’t much of a police presence but I don’t really think this is a bad area.
South Africa Latest News, South Africa Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Controversial not proven verdict set to be scrapped in ScotlandThe Victims, Witnesses and Justice Reform (Scotland) Bill will also change the size of criminal juries from 15 to 12.
Read more »
Rishi Sunak wins vote on controversial illegal migration bill\n\t\t\tKeep abreast of significant corporate, financial and political developments around the world.\n\t\t\tStay informed and spot emerging risks and opportunities with independent global reporting, expert\n\t\t\tcommentary and analysis you can trust.\n\t\t
Read more »
Controversial Immigration Bill clears Commons despite attacks from Theresa MayThe children's commissioner for England, Dame Rachel de Souza, has joined opposition to the legislation, warning ministers there is not enough protection for asylum seeker children
Read more »
Government to consider controversial West Burton solar projectAnother major Lincolnshire solar farm being considered by the government
Read more »
The Best Banned FilmsOur five favourite controversial movies that the authorities would rather you missed
Read more »