I am proud to be standing as your Liberal Democrat candidate in Oakham South. This is a real opportunity for us to hold the Tories to account and change our community for the better.

I live in Oakham South myself and I ran a busy solicitors practice in the town for over 20 years, before retiring in 2018.

Since my retirement, I have seen what an increasing mess our Tory council has made of so many different aspects of Rutland life.

Just recently, their shambolic handling of local planning has resulted in green belt land being approved for development on Braunston Road, despite this not being in the current local plan.

When past developments have been approved, the council has failed to ensure that sites are developed as proposed and failed to collect funds from developers, which could have been used for leisure facilities such a functioning swimming pool.

It is clear that change is needed. I believe that it is time for the Tories to stop making decisions behind closed doors and be more responsive to residents' needs, the right services in the right places at the right times.

As your councillor, I would work hard to protect our natural environment, preserve the unique character of Oakham, and explore how the council can provide further help to resolve the current problems with the provisions of local primary health care.

I am also passionate about making sure that mental health needs are treated no different from physical health needs and as Lib Dems we are fighting for local access to good quality mental health care services.

Additionally, there is the question of the decline of the High Street. Not long-ago Oakham was a regional shopping venue, with numerous specialised shops.

Now we are studded with charity shops, men's barbers, and opticians, many of which are fantastic, but there is now little to attract people to the town.

What has the Tory Council done to address this? In 2017 Tory RCC proposed a one-way system to solve all Oakham's problems. That proposal was deeply unpopular and was dropped.

What has the Council done since to improve the High Street? Nothing. If elected, I will work hard to support our local economy, encourage new independent businesses, and unlock our high streets amazing potential.

Thank you for taking the time to read this letter, I hope that on August 19th you will trust me with your vote and elect me to serve you and our town.

Should you have any questions or if you would like my assistance with any local issues, please do not hesitate to contact me using the details below.

Paul Browne

07748707854

[email protected]

10 Spinney Hill, Oakham, LE15 6JL"