Tim Barnes, the Conservative candidate, secured victory over Labour’s Fiona Parker yesterday by a margin of 130 votes, returning as West End Ward Councillor after a two-year hiatus. This result now leaves the ward with a political split: two Labour Councillors and one Conservative.  Turnout was just 16.8%.

Tim is a very experienced local politician. He previously served alongside the former MP Nickie Aiken, during their tenure on the Council when it was under Conservative leadership and prior to his defeat in 2022, Tim had a term as a ward councillor and held the position of Cabinet Member for Young People and Learning.

Tim is expected to play an active role in planning matters and with local businesses and landowners.  To date he has campaigned on reducing crime,  abandoned e-bikes and improving air quality.