1) What do you plan on doing for the people of Andover?
I intend to represent the people of Andover at county council. For too long the county council has been seen as remote from Andover. Decisions are made without local consultation and are sometimes not in the best interests of local people. A councillor is there to represent his constituents to the council not to represent the council to the voters. Its time for the county council to re-engage with local people and I hope to be part of that process.
2) What have you done for the people of Andover?
For eight years I was a borough councillor for Andover and I spent most of my time out and about working with and for local people. I got new dog bins and road signs installed. I campaigned for road repairs, most recently getting flooding on Northern Avenue sorted. I have worked regularly with the police to deal with problems around the town.
I supported residents of Enham in getting their parish council and worked with county councillors to get a 30mph speed limit in the village. I joined Smannell residents in opposing the closure of Smannell Road and worked with them to improve local broadband.
I founded the Roman Way Forum giving local people the chance to meet regularly with police, councillors and council officials. I persuaded the Co-op to keep their shop on King Arthurs Way open until another operator could be found.
I am trustee of the Alamein Community Association running King Arthurs Hall and local events. I am a member of Andover Trees United working with local schools to plant new woodland at Augusta Park.
Full details on all of these and my many years working for Andover and its residents can be found on my website at http://lengates.focusteam.org/
3) Why should people vote for you?
Andover and Hampshire need a change of management and direction. The existing councillors are distant and lacking imagination to deal with the problems we face. A change needs new councillors but it also needs experience. I have that experience. I’ve worked for years with council officers at borough and county level to make Andover a better place. I can continue to do so and do more as a county councillor. The choice is between me and the sitting councillor. I can do a better job and do it immediately.