Lake North By-Election To Cost Taxpayers Over £5,000

This week’s Isle of Wight Council by-election in Lake North will cost more than £5,100, according to a Freedom of Information (FOI) request.

The October 2 (Thursday) poll was triggered by the resignation of Reform UK councillor David Maclean, who stepped down just months after being elected at a previous by-election.

The FOI shows spending will include £1,481 on the polling station and count, £2,400 on polling cards, £464 on stationery, and £801 on postal votes.

This is the second Lake North by-election in just a few months, adding to growing frustration over the costs.

Cllr Cameron Palin, of the Isle of Wight Green Party, said the money could have gone towards “a youth group, luncheon club, mental health support group or new play equipment” instead of covering election costs.

Reform UK’s Cllr Caroline Gladwin defended her party, saying responsibility lay with opponents who “attacked [Maclean] without mercy” following his election.

Cllr Andrew Garratt, Liberal Democrat leader at County Hall, said the situation highlighted the importance of electing councillors who can serve a full term:

“This is the second time Lake North residents have been asked to choose a councillor in a few months – and the second time taxpayers are footing the bill.”

Five candidates are standing in the by-election:

• Bob Blezzard (Liberal Democrat)

• Christopher Lloyd (Labour)

• Robert May (Green)

• Bill Nigh (Reform UK)

• Adrian Whittaker (Conservative)