Candidates Announced For Lake North By-Election

Voters in Lake North will head to the polls on Thursday 2 October to elect a new Isle of Wight councillor, following the recent resignation of Reform UK’s David Maclean.

The by-election sees candidates from all major parties contesting the seat, which Mr Maclean won in a May 2025 by-election, defeating the Conservatives by 291 votes to 232.

The candidates are:

• Bob Blezzard (Liberal Democrat), Perowne Way, Sandown

• Christopher Lloyd (Labour), Victoria Avenue, Shanklin

• Robert May (Green Party), Victoria Road, Sandown

• Bill Nigh (Reform UK)

• Adrian Whittaker (Conservative), Sandown Road, Shanklin

All candidates were invited to outline their priorities ahead of the vote.

Labour’s Christopher Lloyd said he would focus on expanding community facilities, improving local retail for elderly residents, and supporting small businesses with council grants.

Reform UK’s Bill Nigh highlighted tackling anti-social behaviour, fixing roads, and ensuring council services meet residents’ daily needs.

Conservative Adrian Whittaker, a long-term Island resident and current Lake North councillor, emphasised supporting local residents and businesses and continuing improvements to public facilities.

Liberal Democrat Bob Blezzard pointed to his previous experience as a councillor and school governor, citing priorities including road safety at the Fairway/Lake Hill junction and protecting local schools.

Green Party candidate Robert May did not provide a statement by the publication deadline.

Residents can vote in person on 2 October, with polling stations open across Lake North.