Neill Walker is the Reform UK Prospective Parliamentary Candidate for Newcastle-under-Lyme. We spoke with Neill about his decision to stand.
“I currently serve as a parish councillor and Vice Chair for Whitmore, I embarked on my journey into local politics. It became evident to me that our community faces systemic challenges”
Can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers?
My name is Neill Walker, married to Julie, with two sons residing locally and two granddaughters attending school in Newcastle-under-Lyme. Regarding Brexit, yes, I did vote for it. However, the promises of Brexit being fully delivered have not materialized. The ongoing restrictions from the EU and other sources have hindered the growth of our country and caused more harm than good. It’s evident that significant change is necessary; it’s time to reform the entire system.
What made you decide to stand for Reform UK
After establishing myself in Baldwins Gate, where I currently serve as a parish councillor and Vice Chair for Whitmore, I embarked on my journey into local politics. It became evident to me that our community faces systemic challenges, including a lack of accountability, transparency, and proactive engagement from local government, the Environment Agency, and Highways. This glaring deficiency has been a source of immense frustration.
Recognising the need for action, I resolved to step up and make a difference. My decision to stand for Reform UK, a party I have been a member of for nearly two years, was born out of a sincere belief that they prioritize the interests of the people. It’s disheartening to witness the shift in priorities of mainstream parties like Labour and the Conservatives, who seem more preoccupied with power struggles than serving the public. The prevalence of broken promises is alarming; in my view, when politicians commit to something, they should follow through. Too often, it seems some view holding a seat in the House of Commons as a entitlement, rather than a responsibility to be fulfilled with integrity and dedication.
“Additionally, I advocate for bringing services back to the local level, creating more well-paid jobs and ensuring greater control over council funds allocation”
You’re the Spokesman for Newcastle-under-Lyme what’s made you decide to represent this area?
Having been rooted in Newcastle-Under-Lyme for many years, I’ve borne witness to its evolution, not all of which has been positive. My connection to this area began at the age of 16, when I participated in the Youth Training Scheme (YTS), honing practical skills such as wiring a plug—skills often underestimated but crucial in daily life.
Despite periods of living and working both domestically and abroad, my wife and I have always felt a magnetic pull back to Newcastle-Under-Lyme. Our decision was solidified by familial ties; our sons reside locally, and our granddaughters attend school in the area. Furthermore, we are ingrained in a community filled with friends and relatives who call this place home.
Raised in Staffordshire, I possess an innate passion for the region, cherishing its heritage and the resilience of its people. This affinity is amplified by my wife’s extensive service as a nurse within the NHS for 35 years, and my brother-in-law’s 38-year tenure as a GP. These familial connections have afforded me insights into the inner workings of the NHS, enriching my understanding of its challenges and triumphs.
“The Iron Market and the market itself hold nostalgic value but have become eyesores. By reducing business rates and imposing charges on online stores, we can support local businesses and breathe new life into the town centre”
What do you see as the big concerns for the constituency and what issues do you hope to champion?
If entrusted with the responsibility to represent the people of Newcastle-Under-Lyme, I am dedicated to initiating meaningful change, focusing on three pivotal areas:
Reform of Local Councils:
I envision local councils characterised by accountability and transparency. To achieve this, I propose regular meetings among portfolio heads and the executive team to openly discuss and review the council’s state and services. Additionally, I advocate for bringing services back to the local level, creating more well-paid jobs and ensuring greater control over council funds allocation. Creating avenues for public challenges will empower communities to voice concerns, particularly regarding planning decisions, ensuring that brownfield sites are prioritized over green spaces for development.
Reform of Quangos – Environment Agency and Highways:
Recent actions by the Environment Agency, particularly regarding Walley Quarry, have raised concerns due to a lack of transparency in decision-making processes. Reforming the agency is imperative. Similarly, our highways system requires urgent attention. Potholes, hazardous pavements, and malfunctioning traffic lights highlight the disjointed nature of our current system. Streamlining operations and prioritizing local teams will allow us to address these issues effectively.
Reform Taxation – Help Rejuvenate our Town:
Our town center has experienced a decline in recent years, losing independent retailers and failing to attract visitors. To reverse this trend, we must encourage the return of independent retailers and increase footfall by creating more attractive amenities. The Iron Market and the market itself hold nostalgic value but have become eyesores. By reducing business rates and imposing charges on online stores, we can support local businesses and breathe new life into the town centre.
By focusing on these reforms, I am committed to revitalising Newcastle-Under-Lyme and ensuring that it remains a vibrant and prosperous community for generations to come.
For those eager to help, how can they get involved in the campaign?
To get involved – with stales and leafleting or if there are groups that need supporting in your area then please contact me either through my Facebook page: www.facebook.com/NewcastleUnderLymeRefomUK/ or email me at: [email protected].
