Local Elections May 2011

The turnout for this year's local elections was disappointingly poor. In my central Rochford ward just 34% of people could be bothered to vote. What surprised me most was this percentage was barely higher than Milton Ward in central Southend, where I lived for a while previously and, by comparison to Rochford, a far more diverse and less cohesive community. I just didn't expect Rochford to be as disenfranchised as one of the poorest parts of Southend. What sits behind this level of dispondency? Is it that, with the exception of a couple of Independents, Conservative dominate the Council, and there is a belief that one vote will not make any difference and, anyway, the Conservatives do a reasonable job in running the Council. If it ain't broke..etc. I tried to keep an open mind towards the elections, and read all the campaigning literature that came through the door. It would have been nice to meet some of the candidates as well, though none called. What struck me is that some of the proposals put forward would cost a gigantic sum of money that we know isn't available to spend. It was difficult therefore to take some of the Candidates' wish lists seriously. For example, one Candidate mentioned the building of a bypass to take the pressure of Ashingdon Road. Yes, we know the roads in the district are congested for many hours each day, but realistically we know that it's a bonus if the potholes are repaired. I don't personally believe we are likely to see any significant road schemes in the District for many years, and I'm not sure that they would even be desirable (Southend bypass?) However, just because there is a lack of cash, I strongly believe that should not be an excuse for making improvements in the area where possible. I believe there are a number of opportunities, some outlined in this Blog already, which could improve Residents' lives which would cost the Council very little. Realistic, imaginative, and attractive proposals are the way to get people on board in my view, and ensure the District moves forward from 1965.