Alan Wells, Lib Dems candidate for Strood North by-election will protect Strood's green spaces and parks

Liberal Democrats would improve environmental standards in the Medway Towns by adopting sensible and consistently applied planning policies which are in line with the surrounding environment. The Conservative-led Council, by not having yet adopted a Local Plan, has had less control over developments in order to meet the Government's housing targets and this means developers often win their planning appeals, thereby causing great harm to our green spaces.

Alan Wells, Lib Dems candidate for the upcoming Strood North by-election said "Whilst I recognise the need for new housing, it must be in the right places, where there is good provision of infrastructure. We would concentrate new housing developments in areas with good bus and rail links to reduce car usage, and in locations where there is scope to provide decent pedestrian, cycling and public transport connections.

Liberal Democrats want to preserve open spaces around our towns, giving the local community space for leisure and recreation, without causing harm to Medway's most sensitive wildlife habitats and species. We would improve the connectivity of habitats to provide robust ecological networks and provide new allotments on 'brown build' sites to provide for an increased population.

This is highlighted in the expansion and success of Broomhill Park an open green space that has been growing in strength when the 'Friends of Broomhill' finally fulfilled their ten-year dream of purchasing The Old Orchard. The area is now accessible for many Park users and provides a quiet and relaxed environment for residents and visitors.

The parks and green spaces of Strood and Frindsbury are vital resources for us all, bringing our communities together and benefitting our physical and mental health and wellbeing. I would demonstrate my commitment to this, and support and champion parks and green spaces as well as advocate for their protection.

ENDS

Liberal Democrats would prepare a Local Plan, which included a robust green infrastructure plan for Medway, fully supporting adaptation to climate change, improving flood management and prevention, and improving urban air quality as well as providing other important benefits which underpin sustainable economic growth.

Notes and additional text for Editors:

Alan Wells Strood North Candidate

Alan has been an active member of Medway Liberal Democrats since 2018 and has campaigned in Kent elections for the last 3 years. Alan has previously been a Candidate for River Ward in the 2019 local elections and has been Press Officer for the local party since January 2019.

Alan is a natural, enthusiastic campaigner on a wide range of issues. He has a strong understanding of social justice and campaigned in the our mental health unit campaign. He has been active on a number of our issues, such as defending the environment, homelessness issues and campaigning on air quality issues.

Alan Wells said "I feel privileged to represent the Liberal Democrats for Strood North. I have been working in the ward as a care assistant for 2 years and know the ward very well and I am determined to work hard to represent the residents of the ward"