With local elections in large parts of the country in May, we speak with Bernard Giltrap, SDP candidate for Earlsdon ward in Coventry.
“Residents are tired of seeing our local heritage neglected, our basic services failing, and major changes being imposed on our streets without proper consultation”
Can you introduce yourself to our readers, and tell us what made you decide to run?
I’m Bernard Giltrap, the Social Democratic Party (SDP) candidate for Earlsdon in Coventry. I decided to run because I am deeply frustrated by the complacency of the current Labour run council and the lack of genuine accountability. Residents are tired of seeing our local heritage neglected, our basic services failing, and major changes being imposed on our streets without proper consultation. I wanted to offer a community focused alternative that actually listens to the people who live and work here.
“we need a council that actually protects Earlsdon Street”
You’re the candidate for Earlsdon Ward, Coventry. What are the main concerns in the area?
There are four major issues I want to focus on:
Earlsdon Street: Earlsdon Street is being dragged down by derelict sites. Over a year ago, the front of a historic building (the old NatWest) was demolished without permission in our Conservation Area. The council is using a planning appeal as an excuse to do the bare minimum, leaving a scaffolded eyesore. I am demanding the council launch an immediate criminal prosecution. Earlsdon Street (a main shopping area) has lost a lot of its independent traders and variety of shops over the years, and we need a council that actually protects Earlsdon Street.
Fly tipping: We have a serious problem with illegal dumping in communal bins and rear entries, creating genuine public health and pest control hazards near our homes and restaurants.
Crime & ASB: There has been a concerning rise in vehicle crime and anti-social behaviour, particularly around local car parks. Residents shouldn’t be losing vehicles from their own streets.
Transport & Road Closures: I’ll demand a review of the Liveable neighbourhood scheme with real resident Input.
“I hope to champion transparency and accountability. I want to back our local independent businesses, protect our community assets….”
What do you see as the major issues more widely in Coventry and if elected what do you hope to champion?
More widely across Coventry, the major issue is a fundamental disconnect between the council and the taxpayers. Whether it’s the chaotic rollout of traffic schemes, the failure to protect our local heritage from reckless developers, or basic services like street cleaning and reliable public transport falling by the wayside, the council has stopped getting the basics right.
If elected, I hope to champion transparency and accountability. I want to back our local independent businesses, protect our community assets, and ensure that local people have the final say on what happens to their neighbourhoods.
How can people find out more or get involved in the campaign?
Voters can find out more about the broader SDP platform at SDP.org.uk. For local updates on the Earlsdon campaign, they can follow us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/sdp.earlsdon or email me directly at Bernard.Giltrap@sdp.org.uk
