Reform UK’s leader in North East Lincolnshire local elections sets out his party’s pitch to voters, and responds to a question from Grimsby Live

Voters head to the polls on May 7 to elect 15 councillors, one in each ward, to North East Lincolnshire Council. Grimsby Live contacted leaders of political groups with existing councillors in North East Lincolnshire, or who are standing in most wards, for their pitches to voters on why they should choose them.

In particular, we have asked them to outline policy priorities for changes to bring to, or things to continue, at North East Lincolnshire Council-level. Grimsby Live has also asked an individual question to political groups, partly linked to their current councillor numbers.

Here, Reform UK‘s group leader Cllr Oliver Freeston (Croft Baker Ward) sets out his party’s pitch to North East Lincolnshire voters. He also responds to the question, “Even if Reform won all 15 wards, it will not be even near majority control of the council. So how will it work with other political groups to make a difference in North East Lincolnshire?” Currently, Cllr Freeston is the only Reform councillor out of 42 councillors.

For a full list of candidates standing in North East Lincolnshire Council elections, view here.

Reform UK’s pitch to North East Lincolnshire voters – Cllr Oliver Freeston

“Reform UK is standing in North East Lincolnshire because residents deserve a council that focuses on common sense, value for money, and instilling a sense of pride in where we live.

“Our priorities reflect what local people tell us matters most. We will cut wasteful spending, review procurement to prioritise local businesses where possible, and end funding for initiatives that do not deliver tangible benefits, as well as unnecessary vanity projects. Savings will be redirected to better frontline services. We will also restore transparency, ensuring major projects are openly scrutinised with regular public updates.

“Roads and pavements across the borough are in poor condition, and short-term fixes are unacceptable. A Reform UK council administration will invest in durable, long-lasting pothole repairs using high-quality materials, explore proven technology such as the Pothole Pro, and work with neighbouring councils to cut costs through joint procurement.

“We believe in restoring pride in our heritage and identity. We will ensure our civic buildings proudly fly the St George’s flag and Union flag as symbols of our shared values and traditions.

“Our approach to development is clear: we will oppose inappropriate building on green belt land and focus on improving what we already have. In Cleethorpes, that means restoring flower displays along the promenade and reopening public toilets so they are clean and accessible for all.

“Using the council’s ownership of Freshney Place, we will support local businesses and seek to attract major retailers through innovative incentives, including trial rent reductions where permissible. We also recognise the potential of the Humber Freeport in Immingham and the impact of job losses at Lindsey Oil Refinery, and will work with businesses to reduce unnecessary red tape that holds back growth.

“We will ensure ward funding goes to charities and organisations that deliver real benefits locally, including youth centres, community hubs, and activities for young people. At the same time, we will end council funding that is not legally required for asylum-related support, ensuring resources are focused solely on local residents.

“We will review waste and recycling services to ensure they work effectively, while improving the street scene with better maintenance and initiatives such as wildflower planting to brighten neglected areas.

“On community safety, we will step up enforcement against antisocial behaviour, fly-tipping and nuisance neighbours, and explore with Humberside Police a pilot shopfront unit in Freshney Place – leveraging council ownership – to boost visibility and reassure shoppers.

“Adult social care is one of the council’s most important responsibilities. We will review provision to ensure timely, high-quality care, properly supported staff, and value for taxpayers.

“We will also reduce out-of-area SEND placements by investing in local provision, improving outcomes for children while cutting transport costs for taxpayers.

“We are committed to growing our own workforce by working with local education providers to create clear pathways into careers such as social work and engineering, reducing reliance on overseas and often costly, agency recruitment.

“We will take an innovative approach to tourism by working in partnership with the private sector and local charities to enhance events such as Christmas markets, including seasonal pop up attractions such as a small ice rink, as seen successfully in other towns. Together, we will also make better use of spaces like Meridian Point, hosting live events during major national occasions such as the Euros and World Cup.

“This election is an opportunity to restore pride in our area, ensure value for money in council spending, and bring common sense back to decision-making.

“Please support your local Reform UK candidate. It is time for change.”

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Q: Even if Reform won all 15 wards, it will not be even near majority control of the council. So how will it work with other political groups to make a difference in North East Lincolnshire?

“We are aiming to win all 15 seats, and we believe every ward is winnable. Our candidates are working hard across the area to make this possible.

“We recognise no single group is likely to have full control due to the election by thirds cycle. After the election, we will review the position, but our focus will be on delivering for North East Lincolnshire.

“We will work constructively with councillors from all parties where it benefits the area.”

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