With the local elections just around the corner, I wanted to share a few thoughts with you as someone who lives and works in this community, just like you.
You’ve probably had your fair share of leaflets by now. Most of them talk about the same issues — housing, traffic, the cost of living, public services. And rightly so — these are things that matter deeply to all of us.
But the question I’d really encourage you to think about is this:
Who do you trust to actually deliver for this community?
Local Elections Should Be About Local People
This isn’t a general election. It’s not about Westminster politics. It’s about Carbis Bay, Lelant and St Ives East, and who is best placed to represent your concerns, your priorities, and your community.
I’m proud to be standing as an Independent candidate. I’m not part of a national party machine. I’m not following a script written by someone miles away. I live here. I work here. I’m already doing the work — and I care deeply about getting things done the right way.
What We’ve Already Achieved — And What Comes Next
As Town Mayor and Councillor over the past four years, I’ve been part of a council team that has:
- Improved the way the council communicates with residents
- Led a major traffic planning project to help ease congestion in St Ives
- Supported our community groups and public spaces
- Secured well over £4 million in funding for council projects, both through the Town Deal and other sources
- Sat on the Town Deal board, helping deliver grants to over 70 local businesses
- Helped secure a major devolution deal, bringing 48 local assets, from parks to public buildings, back under local control where they belong
This kind of progress doesn’t come from party politics.
It comes from listening, collaboration, and a real commitment to the place we call home.
Party Promises or Local Action?
Some candidates will be asking you to send a message with your vote to protest against one party or support another. But this isn’t the time to be sending messages to Westminster. This is about choosing someone who will work hard for our parish, now and into the future.
Party politics doesn’t work well for Cornwall. Decisions are often made too far away by people who don’t really understand what life is like here or what’s really going on. That’s why I believe local elections should be about local voices. And that’s why I’m standing — as a truly independent candidate who’s already working for you.
A Chance to Choose Differently
If you want someone who’s committed, experienced, and focused on getting things done, not playing party games, then I’d be honoured to have your support on May 1st.
Let’s choose community over politics.
Let’s keep it local, and keep making a difference.
Johnnie Wells
Independent Candidate – Carbis Bay, Lelant & St Ives East