Political opinion with John Milne MP: Three kinds of election on one day

Horsham voters could be forgiven for being a little confused by the trio of elections heading their way on May 7th. What exactly are we voting for and why?

First and foremost, the biggest election in terms of budget and voters is for West Sussex County Council (WSCC). It is responsible for key services such as education, adult social care and that ever popular subject – potholes. Last year’s election was outrageously cancelled by the WSCC Conservative controlling group. They tried to pull off the same trick again this year, but shaky legal grounds caused the government to withdraw permission.

WSCC has been controlled by the Conservatives for many years, but that seems certain to change. Given the troubles afflicting Keir Starmer’s government, it’s likely that the deciding battle will be between the Lib Dems and Reform.

I’m delighted that this twice-cancelled election will finally go ahead. As a former councillor myself, I understand the terrific budget challenges that all local authorities face. Many rash promises for cuts in council tax were made in council elections last year, and they’ve not been fulfilled.

Instead, while the cost-of-living crisis continues to hit hard, if not worse, with recent spikes in oil and petrol prices, WSCC put their council tax portion up to the maximum. Meanwhile, residents are not getting much in return, as our roads continue to crumble.

WSCC should be directing more resources toward efficiencies and better management, investing in the latest technological solutions, to help them meet statutory targets on SEND & other vital services. Contrast WSCC with the excellent management at Horsham District Council (HDC), which continues to deliver more with less.

Next up is an election for the brand-new Horsham Parish (Town) Council, with 18 seats to be contested. Many Horsham town services have long been run directly by HDC, with the able assistance of the 3 neighbourhood councils. But HDC is scheduled to be merged into a new Unitary Council as part of the local government reorganisation process. The new Town Council will ensure Horsham retains a local voice in decision-making. The Town Council will have similar powers to those of all the parish councils that represent communities across the rest of Horsham District, and new councillors will decide not only which services to provide but also which HDC assets to take on.

And finally, there’s a by-election in Itchingfield, Slindfold and Warnham for a seat on Horsham District Council. HDC is responsible for things like emptying the bins and planning. After careful consideration, Lib Dem Councillor Kasia Greenwood has stepped down from her role. She has done an amazing job and will continue to support the local party with their work. We already have an excellent candidate lined up, Ed Skeates, and we look forward to fighting hard for the seat.

On 7th May, naturally, I hope you will support my own party, the Lib Dems. But either way, I urge everyone to cast their vote. These three councils will run services that directly affect our everyday lives.