Four-Way Contest For Central Rural As Former Reform Councillor Seeks Re-Election

Ex-Reform UK councillor Caroline Gladwin is aiming to retain her Central Rural seat in a closely contested Isle of Wight Council election battle involving the Greens, Conservatives and Reform UK.

She faces Julia Ann Laursen (Green Party), Simon James Richards (Conservative) and James Whelan (Reform UK) as voters prepare for the Island’s first council-wide elections since 2021.

The Local Democracy Reporting Service invited candidates to submit 100-word statements and photos ahead of polling day.

Here is what they said, in their own words:

Caroline Anne Gladwin (incumbent councillor)

No statement was provided.

Julia Ann Laursen (Green Party)

Ms Laursen says she is chair of Chillerton and Gatcombe Parish Council and has led work on an updated emergency plan for the area.

She says her leadership has helped bring four parish councils together through a Ward Liaison Group, which has supported a local “greening campaign” across Central Rural.

She describes herself as having strong environmental values and works as a coach, NLP trainer and therapist.

She says it would be a privilege to represent Central Rural, which she has called home for many years.

Simon James Richards (Conservative)

Mr Richards says he has lived in Newport for 33 years and has 25 years of public sector experience working across the NHS, local council and police in business management roles.

He now works in education governance consultancy and supports local communities.

He has served as a school governor for 15 years across six schools and is also a charity trustee.

He says his experience has strengthened his ability to work with partners, listen to concerns and represent people whose voices are often overlooked.

James Whelan (Reform UK)

Mr Whelan says he returned to the Island after a career in the Royal Engineers and went on to establish two businesses.

He says he now works across housing providers, councils and private clients, and is active in the agricultural sector supporting landowners with drainage, land management and maintenance.

He says this gives him a clear understanding of rural challenges.

He adds that if elected, he would focus on making council services fairer, more efficient and more responsive to residents’ needs.