Paul, who was born and raised in Darlington, is in his third term as Heighington and Coniscliffe Ward Councillor. He is vice-chair of the Audit Committee, sits on the Children & Young People Scrutiny, Economy & Resources Scrutiny and the Members Standards Committees. He sees education and the creation of good quality job opportunities for the young and unemployed as key areas of focus in the immediate future. A vibrant town centre and town wide business growth is a high priority for Darlington. The Council's forward plan targets these priorities and Paul fully supports this.
Paul's experience working on wind farms, carbon capture and industrial developments will bring knowledge to the council as it moves towards a greener, low carbon environment, targeted to alleviate the council's declared climate emergency.
As a member of the Tees Valley Combined Authority (TVCA) Audit committee, Paul sees the huge inward investment opportunities the TVCA brings to both Darlington and the wider Teesside population. He recognises that the TVCA’s focus on Education, Transport and Business Development is essential to deliver the opportunities our residents need for a bright future.
Paul engages with parish councils, parish meetings, West rural watch, the police and other local organisations operating in the Ward. He supports interest groups, particularly in planning issues and advocates their cases at Planning Committee. He also fields many issues relating to highways, StreetScene, environment, footpaths, council housing and other residents’ concerns.
Paul is the Ward coordinator for Darlington Support Volunteers, set up to deliver help to residents during the Covid 19 pandemic.
Our local Conservative MPs and the TVCA Mayor are used by Paul to champion issues raised by Darlington residents, where appropriate. His support of them remains staunch and he will continue to assist them through their current terms and help achieve their re-election.