I would like to put the record straight regarding some issues mentioned in the Withdean independent candidate's leaflet that has been delivered across the ward.

Contrary to his/her claim, I am, and have been for some time, working with residents in Withdean, particularly in the Reigate Road and Hampstead Road area, in an attempt to bring about a suitable parking scheme that will allow residents to park near their homes.

Also, contrary to another of his/her statements, there are no parking schemes in place in Withdean ward and therefore there are no charges to park anywhere in the ward.

I have not been working to create problems as reported in the leaflet.

The A23 sustainable transport corridor which incorporates bus and cycle lanes was introduced using Government funding and supported by the current Labour administration in the expectation that a parkand- ride would be established at Patcham Court Farm.

This particular park-and-ride proposal, as we all know, was thrown out following substantial evidence that the site would be unsuitable for a number of reasons and Conservative councillors in Patcham and Withdean led the way on this rejection.

All three Withdean ward Conservative councillors, who are also candidates in the forthcoming local elections, fought against many aspects of the A23 scheme but with Labour and other political party support, it was approved.

With regard to the secondary schools admissions process, yes, I was a member of the review group but when all issues surrounding the review were known I found myself not being able to support the review group's recommendations.

Therefore, I voted against those recommendations when they twice came before the children, families and schools committee on February 2 and 27.

Again, contrary to the leaflet, the Conservatives did understand how those plans would affect parents and children in Withdean ward and that is why I voted against the proposals.

  • Ken Norman, Conservative candidate for Withdean ward