Balderstone and Kirkholt: A Diverse Field of Candidates Vying for Your Vote

The upcoming election in Balderstone and Kirkholt presents voters with a diverse range of candidates, each offering a unique vision for the future of the ward. From seasoned community advocates to fresh faces determined to shake things up, the choices are plentiful.

Leanne Greenwood of the Labour Party emphasises her commitment to improving the town for her children and all residents. She believes Rochdale has significant potential and promises to ensure Balderstone and Kirkholt benefit from the opportunities on the horizon. Drawing on her experience as a trade union representative, she aims to be a strong voice for her constituents, building on her past successes in securing funding for Balderstone Park and addressing local concerns like safety and litter.

Independent candidate Billy Howarth is campaigning on a platform of independence from party politics. He seeks to give residents a stronger voice by scrutinising council decisions, free from the pressures of party affiliation. With two decades of experience advocating for children and families, particularly during the damp and mould crisis, Howarth promises to reinvest any councillor allowance directly back into the community.

Chariss Peacock of the Liberal Democrats focuses her campaign on criticising Labour's national policies and their impact on local residents. She highlights the two-child benefit cap, the situation with WASPI women, and PIP cuts, arguing that these policies disproportionately affect vulnerable populations in Rochdale. Peacock offers herself as a local advocate, aiming to rectify what she sees as failures of both Labour and Conservative parties.

Laura Pugh, representing the Workers Party, is campaigning on a platform of action and tangible improvements for the community. As a young mother raised in Kirkholt, she understands the challenges faced by local families and seeks to provide extra support. Her priorities include securing funding for older residents, establishing youth programs to combat anti-social behaviour, implementing effective traffic calming measures, and upgrading substandard housing.

Conservative candidate Mudassar Razzaq emphasises his local business ties and commitment to representing the interests of the community. He believes his understanding of local issues, born from his daily involvement in the ward, makes him an ideal candidate to challenge council decisions and ensure effective use of taxpayer money. Razzaq pledges to work tirelessly for the residents of Balderstone and Kirkholt.

Martyn Savin of the Green Party argues that neither Labour nor the Conservatives have adequately served the country, and that Reform UK cannot be trusted. He advocates for increased investment in local infrastructure, funded by taxing wealthy individuals and corporations more effectively. Savin also champions the protection of the NHS, contrasting it with Reform UK's proposed insurance-based health system.

Jordan Tarrant-Short, representing Reform UK, highlights his personal connection to the area and understanding of the challenges faced by local residents. He promises to be a visible and active representative, fighting for improved access to healthcare, better infrastructure, and increased school funding. Tarrant-Short positions himself as a voice for the community, offering a common-sense approach to address local issues.

Ultimately, voters in Balderstone and Kirkholt face a significant decision. Each candidate offers a distinct perspective and set of priorities. The choice lies with the residents to decide who best represents their interests and can effectively advocate for the future of their community.