Jonathan Hollins is the Reform UK candidate in this Thursday’s by-election for a Torfaen County Borough Council seat in the Llantarnam Ward of Cwmbran.
Cwmbran Life offered candidates the chance to write a piece about why residents should vote for them.
Jonathan wrote: “I am a long-standing local resident of Llantarnam. I grew up locally and have lived in the Llantarnam ward since 2010. I have enjoyed a varied career involving roles in major private and public sector organisations, including a nearby council. I was able to experience at first-hand the workings, and many failings, of Welsh county councils. Residents simply want improved services, better facilities and more affordable bills. But there is no incentive for your council to do any of this, when they know they can just hike up council tax bills every single year.
“We know the residents of Llantarnam deserve better from their public services. Residents struggle to see their GP or get timely A&E care even though The Grange University Hospital is on our doorstep. Local residents still live in fear of break-ins and car thefts, even though the new headquarters of Gwent Police was built in the ward. And that’s why Reform UK received more votes in Torfaen at the last election than any of the opposition parties.
“I am passionate about improving outcomes for our young people. Cwmbran Stadium must be restored to its former glory. A stadium that once was home to future Olympians sits woefully neglected. As a local school governor I regularly stand up for the families of children who want the best start in life.
“We must ensure that standards are raised, funding guaranteed and facilities keeping pace with 21st century expectations. I will fully engage with the Council to ensure the needs of the young people in Llantarnam are voiced, heard and addressed.
“My aim is to join our established and effective councillors who earn influence through hard work, credibility and delivering results. Reform councillors challenge complacency, scrutinise decisions and ensure residents’ voices are heard. Residents have told me that they value strong local representation. This election gives them the opportunity to continue backing ward-based councillors who work hard and put residents first.
“This by-election is about serving Llantarnam, and giving residents the chance to show that they want change, stronger accountability and councillors focused on delivering for our Llantarnam community.”