Four Candidates Contest Newport Central Seat

The chair of the economy committee at Isle of Wight Council is seeking re-election in Newport Central as voters prepare to head to the polls on May 7.

Julie Jones-Evans, who represents the Alliance group, is defending her seat against Norman Arnold (Liberal Democrats), Stephen Bird (Local Conservatives) and Emerson Maguire (Reform UK).

The Local Democracy Reporting Service invited all candidates to submit a 100-word statement ahead of the election.

Liberal Democrat candidate Norman Arnold and Conservative candidate Stephen Bird did not provide statements.

Incumbent councillor Julie Jones-Evans says she has represented Newport Central since 2009 and continues to live and work in the town as a shopkeeper.

She highlights work including tackling empty shops, introducing residents’ parking, improving pedestrian safety and supporting youth projects such as The PORT.

She says her focus has been on delivering practical improvements and that she has the experience to guide the council through challenging times.

Reform UK candidate Emerson Maguire says he is standing because he wants Newport Central to be a place families can build a future, businesses thrive, and council services work as they should.

He states that there is much potential in Newport, but something must be done with the empty units, cleanliness issues and the need for a safer, more welcoming environment for families and visitors.

He would work constructively with businesses, the council and police to push for practical improvements to make Newport a place where people want to live and visit.

The election will take place on May 7.