Pavement politics in Withdean Ward

Official PR from Brighton and Hove Green Party
6 April 2011. Three local residents with a strong track record in "pavement politics" will be standing for the Green Party in Withdean Ward, north Brighton, in the local elections in May.

The ward is represented by three Conservative councillors but the Green Party is hoping to build on the momentum of Caroline Lucas' historic general election victory and win council seats in new places such as Withdean.

Withdean Ward is part of the Brighton Pavilion constituency which elected Caroline and covers a large suburban area of northwest Brighton taking in Preston Park station in the south, the current Albion football stadium, Westdene and residential areas to the A27 by pass.

Green candidates Sue Shanks, Paul Philo and Jacqui Cuff have been involved in a range of local campaigns including:

Pushing for a school crossing on Surrenden Road;
Campaigning against rail fare rises through the Fare's Fair demonstration at Preston Park station;
Supporting local residents campaigning to stop the Sainsburys overdevelopment of the former Caffyns site on London Road
Ensuring local views are taken into account so that Withdean Stadium provides recreation and play facilities for local families after the Albion move to Falmer.

Lead Green candidate Sue Shanks said: "We're getting a good response on the doorstep in Withdean, and on the basis of our canvassing returns so far we hope to get at least one Green councillor elected. Please consider going Green on 5th May.

"The great thing is that many people want to get involved and help out. It really feels like there is a momentum building in Withdean."

"Many residents are fearful about the effects of the Coalition Government's spending cuts on public services, and were surprised to learn that Withdean has for a long time been represented by three Conservative councillors.
"People are looking for fresh voices for change which new Green Councillors would bring."

The Green Party believes there should be greater openness about council decision-making, particularly if finances are limited, and is committed to bringing more genuine democracy to local government and supporting local neighbourhoods.

To get in touch with your Green candidates please contact us on e: withdeangreens@brightonhovegreens.org