I am Stephen Ashfield, your Green Party candidate for the upcoming local elections on 1 May 2025.

Full statement

As Chair of Shincliffe Parish Council, I have worked hard to deliver meaningful improvements for our community, and I want to bring this same commitment and success to the wider division. In Shincliffe, I have led efforts to introduce a 20mph speed limit and traffic calming measures to make our streets safer, an approach I want to expand to Elvet and Gilesgate. I have worked to protect green spaces, resisting inappropriate developments and prioritising sustainability to ensure our environment is safeguarded for future generations. I have held Durham County Council accountable, ensuring residents’ concerns are heard, whether on highways, planning, or local services. I have also tackled the inappropriate commercial use of parish land, making sure public spaces remain for the benefit of the whole community. My leadership has focused on securing funding for local improvements and supporting community-led projects that enhance our villages and town. The successes we have achieved in Shincliffe prove that real change is possible when local representatives listen and act. As your county councillor, I will work to expand sustainable transport options, protect our environment, increase transparency in local decision-making, and ensure that our community receives its fair share of investment. I have always put residents before politics, delivering real results that improve people’s lives. Now, I want to do the same for Elvet, Gilesgate, and Shincliffe. On 1 May 2025, vote for a councillor with a proven record of action and commitment to the community. Vote Stephen Ashfield – Green Party. Let’s build a greener, safer, and fairer future together.