Dear Member
Elections
The outcome of last week’s District and City elections had positive elements.
In Chelmsford, the Saffron Walden Constituency wards saw no change – 7 out of 8 seats remained Conservative, overall it was a similar picture with Conservatives retaining 21 seats albeit with one loss and one gain. The Liberal Democrats gained 33 seats (2 gained from Independents) and remain the Administration.
The Liberal Democrats have gained, and then 4 years later secured, an overall majority in our neighbouring districts of South Cambs and Chelmsford. In Uttlesford it is a different picture, the LDs lost one seat and 6.74% of their vote. Overall the Conservatives grew their number of seats from 4 (2019) to 11, in the context of the national scenario of 1050 losses this is a good result. I understand we are one of the best performing Councils and are being interviewed by Conservative Home. Our voter share increased by 3.84% and R4U’s went down by 4.66%.
The balance of the Council is now:
R4U 22 seats
Conservatives 11 seats
LDs 4 seats
Independents 2 seats
We haven’t retaken control of the Council but we have made good progress and are well set for 2027. We had a brilliant group of candidates many of whom are young enough to fight many more campaigns. Their spirit and hard work deserves praise.
I would also like to thank our Members for their support, including with the Fighting Fund (which is still open) and campaigning. Your help is invaluable.
Annual General Meeting
The AGM is on Thursday June 22, in Saffron Walden Town Hall, so please keep the date free. Details will be emailed shortly but if you are interested in standing for office then please get in touch.
Audley End Miniature Railway
Simon Aldridge is kindly hosting a private evening at the miniature railway on Friday June 9. This event was first held 2 years ago and was a great success for young and old(er).
If you would like to reserve your tickets, (Adults £20/ Children (3-15 yrs) £10) please call Lisa at The Old Armoury on 01799 506349 or reply to this email.
Kind regards
Howard
Howard Rolfe
Chairman, SWCCA
