Dear Resident,
On May 7th, we will vote for two Councillors to represent Epsom Town & Downs on the new East Surrey Unitary Council. This election is crucial as it will determine policies and services when East Surrey replaces Epsom & Ewell Borough and Surrey County Councils in April 2027.
There is a lot of misinformation about candidates and parties. Our Residents Association candidates, Steve McCormick and Kim Spickett, have run a positive campaign highlighting their track record in local council service and community advocacy. Their manifesto is honest, realistic, and focused on residents’ priorities.
For over 90 years, Residents Associations in Epsom & Ewell have stayed outside party politics, prioritising local people over national agendas. Councillors should represent local interests, not party lines. Steve and Kim are current, well-known Councillors with proven community involvement.
Our ethos is there is no place for party politics in local Councils. What matters is that Councillors represent the local residents on issues that matter to them. I have great respect for anyone who offers to stand for election as a Councillor, but surely what matters is a proven history of community involvement. Our two candidates are both currently serving Councillors and are very well known in the community.
This contrasts with those standing for election more on national political issues beyond the influence of East Surrey Councillors. Reform has sent only generic letters and one candidate does not live in the Borough. With the Green Party both candidates live outside the Borough.
The Conservatives have not communicated with residents. On social media, they blame the Residents Association-led council for Green Belt protections, ignoring that the previous Conservative Government imposed unrealistic housing targets. The Government-appointed Planning Inspector has made clear that some Green Belt development is necessary to approve the Local Plan—without it, all Green Belt could be at risk.
The Liberal Democrats have circulated misleading claims suggesting only they can win or stop other parties. In reality, Residents Associations and Independents could hold the balance of power.
Trust your instincts and vote for candidates who can best represent your local interests.
John Mumford
Chair Woodcote (Epsom) Residents’ Societ
Chair Residents Associations of Epsom & Ewell