TL;DR – Ian’s Message This Week

• Local elections are about local representation, not national party leaders.
• Ian will fight to improve roads, tackle crime, and oppose parking charges.
• He’s committed to regenerating Church Street and improving transport and policing.
• Council Tax, care for the vulnerable, and protecting green spaces are top priorities.
• Ian is not a career politician — he’s here to represent you, not a party line.

I want to begin by saying thank you. The feedback from last week’s post has been both overwhelming and deeply appreciated. No matter where you stand politically, your responses matter. I welcome all views — apart, perhaps, from the one suggesting I’m a loyal customer of Greggs or McDonald’s! As a Michelin-starred chef, I can promise you neither has ever ranked highly on my list of culinary destinations.

I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again: I am not a career politician. I call things as I see them. A spade is a spade — not an “earth-moving implement.” While I’m proud to stand as the Conservative candidate for Seaham this May, I’m doing so because I believe in Conservative values — not because I blindly follow every policy. I take responsibility for what happens next, not what came before.

Local Elections Are About Local People
It’s important to remember this election is about your local representative, not national party politics. You’re not voting in a government — you’re voting for someone who lives among you, who listens, and who will act on your concerns.

You’re not electing figures like Nigel Farage, whose face is plastered across Reform’s literature. You won’t find him walking our streets or standing outside your shops — just appearing on American talk shows. I, on the other hand, am here, on the ground, ready to work for Seaham.

Let’s be clear: I can’t control immigration, the rate of tax, or global economic policy. But I can — and will — fight to:

• Improve our streets
• Tackle crime and anti-social behaviour
• Regenerate our high street and local economy
• Support better education and job training
• Oppose parking charges
• Keep council spending in check

What You’ve Told Me Matters Most
Thanks to the hundreds of feedback forms returned across the region, I’ve heard your concerns loud and clear — and they’re consistent across political lines. Here’s what you’ve told me matters most, and what I’ll work to deliver if elected:

1. More Visible Policing
   You want more police on the streets, and I couldn’t agree more. We need a visible presence to deter crime, protect residents, and restore pride in our community.
2. Fixing Our Roads
   Potholes and worn-out roads are a constant frustration. This isn’t unique to Seaham, but it’s a real issue here — and one I’ll push to prioritise in the council’s budget.
3. Tackling Crime and Anti-Social Behaviour
   This is a top priority for me. The vandalism, reckless biking, and youth gangs causing trouble along the seafront need to be addressed. Everyone has the right to feel safe in their own town.
4. Keeping Council Tax Under Control
   Sadly, we can’t affect this year’s rise — but if I’m elected, I’ll fight hard next year to keep Council Tax low while still delivering the essential services you need.
5. Supporting the Elderly and Vulnerable
   It’s not just about finances — it’s about decency. I’ll push for better care and more resources to support those who need it most, right here in our own communities.
6. Protecting Green Spaces
   I’m absolutely against erecting solar panels on productive green fields. There’s no reason car parks and public buildings shouldn’t be used first. Let’s start with the car park at County Hall.
7. Regenerating Church Street
   I remember when Church Street was thriving — full of butchers, grocers, fishmongers, and independent shops. Now it’s filled with empty units, charity shops, and cafés. I’ll work to attract real business back into the town centre and make it vibrant again.
8. Reducing Waste and Bureaucracy
   We all know the truth — government waste is everywhere. I’ll fight to cut red tape, streamline local decision-making, and get things done efficiently.
9. Improving Public Transport
   You told me our buses and trains aren’t good enough — and I agree. We need more frequent, cleaner, and longer trains, and better-connected bus routes to make Seaham more accessible and connected.

I’m Here to Represent You — Not a Party Machine
I’m standing in this election because I believe in action. I believe in speaking plainly, listening carefully, and fighting for the things that actually matter to our everyday lives. Seaham needs real leadership — not party politics.

If elected, I will represent you, not just a party logo. I’ll speak up for Seaham, act on your concerns, and be accountable to you. That’s the deal I’m offering. Now it’s up to you to decide if that’s the kind of councillor you want.

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Let’s make Seaham stronger — together.

Promoted by Tom Baker on behalf of Ian McAndrew at Conservative Office, Creative Business Park, Riverside Ind Est.. Langley Park, Durham, DH7 9TY