Announcing my candidacy

Announcing my candidacy as an Independent to represent the people of Summertown and Walton Manor in the May 1 Oxfordshire County Council Election

My family and I are privileged to be Summertown residents. It is a place which holds special memories for me especially with my past studies at Oxford University. In recent times, however, we have unfortunately seen our County and City Councils advance policies which have negatively impacted our district. We cannot let them continue. 

Speaking with those I have known for years - and in some cases decades - in our community has left me astonished at the disconnect between our Councillors and those who elected them. Something has to change.

That is why I am proud to be running as an Independent for the Independent Oxford Alliance (IOA) free from the shackles of our country’s fragmented political system. Our district needs someone who understands the issues our community is facing and who can act in their best interests.

Let me summarise why I have chosen to run in four clear points:

1. Scrutinise policies negatively impacting our community including Low Traffic Zones (LTNs)

2. Ensure that, while important, green policies do not negatively impact our economy especially our local business owners

3. Enhance Council efficiency and interrogate current spending practices and waste

4. To make sure the people of Summertown and Walton Manor have a voice that represents their best interests in the County Council

Like many I have spoken with in our area, I am of the opinion that our district currently lacks effective representation. The same councillors we have known for years are seeking re-election again year-on-year. This is detrimental to our community which deserves better.

We have much to be proud of in our district. Not only is it a place of beauty, but it is one rich with history and culture. Summertown and Walton Manor has been home to academics including Nobel Prize winners, famous authors and even the founder of the Paralympic Games, Sir Ludwig Guttmann.

The Council’s current actions are effective in one area: alienating those from all backgrounds and sectors. 

Let’s do something about it.

Many of you will know me already, and I hope I will be able to count on your support on May 1. To those who don’t, let’s grab a coffee at The Meet Point or Colombia Coffee Roasters and chat about the core issues affecting you most.

In the coming months, I intend to meet and speak with as many in our district as possible. I am fortunate to have a wonderful support base around me, not least my family, but I know this will be a tricky race to win. If you or anyone you know would like to offer a helping hand, please do reach out.

The truth is that we are up against established party machines with resources we cannot match. What we can do, however, is deliver a strong message through our campaigning which cannot be ignored. 

The people of Summertown and Walton Manor deserve better, and it is clear that the Liberal Democrat/Green alliance of mediocrity continues to fail us. The Conservatives are still struggling to find their feet at all levels and Reform will likely make no real inroads in Oxford.

We need to address major issues like LTNs and worsening traffic congestion head on and hold the Council properly to account. This is a Council which has for too long not understood the actual state of play, a Council happy to postpone this upcoming election and not answer properly for its mismanagement.

Make no mistake about it, I intend to win this race no matter how hard the challenge. This is something I’m used to doing throughout my career as a successful results and solutions-driven businessman. I will not stray from this ethos during this campaign as I look to secure a better future for the people of Summertown and Walton Manor.

I look forward to speaking with you further and hope that I can rely on your vote on May 1. 

Thank you.

Mark Beer OBE