Ealing Nub News has reached out to each prospective South Acton ward by-election candidate, asking them to outline what they believe are the most pressing issues in the area and how they plan to address them.

South Acton Ward Candidates:

• Julie Carter (Independent)
• Lucas Davies Herbst (Workers Party of Britain)
• Katie Lynn Douglas (Labour Party)
• David Lawrence Hofman (Trade Unionist and Socialist Coalition)
• Timothy William Bailey Hughes (Liberal Democrat)
• Marco Manassero (Reform UK)
• Kristian Mower (Conservative)
• Andrew John Walkley (The Green Party)

Kristian Mower (Conservative)

Kristian Mower from the Conservatives wants to reduce crime, clean up South Acton streets and connect with the community if elected (credit: Kristian Mower).

Standing as for the Conservative Party, Kristian Mower said: "Crime and antisocial behaviour have emerged as the most pressing concerns in the area.

"Given the Labour Party's failure to address these issues effectively at the local level, I propose implementing several measures to enhance public safety. These include increasing the number of CCTV cameras in high-crime areas, particularly near Acton High Street, and bolstering the presence of community enforcement officers.

"Secondly, the decline in the quality of our streets in South Acton has increasingly become more problematic and is concerning the vast majority of South Acton residents. I intend to increase the quality of our street cleaning services and improve waste management practices throughout the ward to beautify South Acton and make it exceedingly clean for our families.

"The third most pressing concern is that the Labour Party has held local power in South Acton for nearly four decades, resulting in a lack of progress and a disconnect from the daily realities of ordinary citizens in the ward.

"Instead of treating South Acton as a secure seat to advance their councillors to Westminster, I intend to prioritise the needs of residents by holding regular surgery's in the local community and maintaining accessibility across various social media platforms. This approach ensures my readiness to effectively serve the general public as their public servant."

Marco Manassero (Reform UK)

Marco Manassero from Reform UK wants to tackle violence against women, ensure more sustainable developments are approved and reduce poverty in South Acton if elected (credit: Marco Manassero).

Marco Manassero, Reform UK candidate for South Acton, said: "South Acton is currently facing several significant issues that have not been effectively managed due to prolonged complacency by the current administration.

"One of the most urgent concerns is the increase in violence against women, drug use, and anti-social behaviour. I believe this situation is partly a result of reduced police visibility under the current Labour leadership. If elected as councillor, I would prioritise reinstating robust community policing and ensuring that our police force is adequately resourced to combat crime effectively.

"Overdevelopment is another critical issue. While development is important for growth, it should not come at the expense of our green spaces or the unique character of our community. We need to ensure that any new developments are accompanied by sufficient infrastructure—such as schools, healthcare, and public transport—to support a balanced and sustainable community.

"Lastly, poverty remains a profound problem in South Acton, which is one of the most deprived areas in the borough. Local charities are struggling to meet the increasing demand for support. Drawing on my experience in business and entrepreneurship, I intend to implement practical solutions to tackle the root causes of poverty. My goal is to create opportunities that enable residents to improve their living conditions and future prospects."

Julie Carter (Independent)

Julie Carter is an independent candidate who will address South Acton residents' problems by making the council more accessible to them if elected (credit: Julie Carter).

Julie Carter standing as an Independent candidate for South Acton, said: "There are many issues that the residents of South Acton endure. The one I am confident I can tackle and resolve single-handedly is making Ealing Council and all their services accessible to residents. 

"I know from personal experience how impossible it is to get anything done or even anyone to answer a phone at the council - in effect, blocking residents of South Acton from receiving the resources, assistance and information they need."

The Green Party, Liberal Democrats, Labour Party, Trade Unionist & Socialist Coalition and Workers Party of Britain have been approached for comment.

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