Tom Appleby was born and bred in the north east, now works as a civil servant, and joined the Liberal Democrats in 2003. He completed two degrees at Northumbria University (politics and law) and recalls spending many summer holidays in Jesmond working at his stepfather’s quantity surveying firm on Osborne Road. We asked him to tell us a little bit more about himself, what he thinks needs fixing in Jesmond and why voters should consider putting an X against his name on Thursday 5th May.

Why run for local election?

“To help people. I stood for election last year and I’m really glad there has been work done on some of the things that I highlighted during that campaign. The whole point of the council is to do the basics properly, in order to help improve people’s quality of life.

“However, some parts of South Jesmond still have bins overflowing, some potholes aren’t being filled and the road markings are in dire states. I want to continue to try and raise a few more issues in order to improve people’s lives in Jesmond.”

What are the main issues you would tackle in Jesmond?

“Another bugbear of mine is what happened at Haldane Bridge. There was a consultation but it seemed a solution was already formed in decision-makers’ heads. I fear that history may repeat itself again when it comes to the low traffic neighbourhoods consultation that’s currently happening.

“Local people are the best people to ask for local solutions, because they deal with the problems day in and day out, they’re the ones who think about it the most. I’m a big advocate for the council fixing local problems according to local people’s solutions.”

What is your opinion of the Low Traffic Neighbourhood scheme?

“I read some some stats from the DVLA that in Jesmond, car ownership has seen the largest falls in the UK. Local transport policy needs to be pragmatic. You can’t start a consultation with an idea in your mind already. That solution may have worked pre-Covid but now because of different circumstances it may not be a good long term solution moving forward. Jesmond is constantly changing character.”

How would you combat anti-social behaviour?

“Operation Oak was good because it had a direct telephone number and a text messaging service. They’ve since dropped that number and now people have to use the 101 number. 101 deals with a plethora of non emergencies. You can imagine, for example, calling to report a group of lads being loud in the street, but once you’ve got through and they’ve sent someone round, those lads would be long gone. Operation Oak offered a more direct and personal touch. I’d be looking to get a dedicated number reinstated rather than using 101.”

How would you seek to bridge the gap between local and student residents?

“I was a student 19 years ago, and there was a clear demarcation between people who called Jesmond their home and people who call Jesmond their home until they graduate. But the important point is that it is home for everyone. I was brought up to treat others how you want to be treated yourself. It’s a case of give and take, of trying to bring different interest groups together and the people who represent them, including the universities and the student unions, and work at community engagement via them. It’s just a case of bringing people together and finding common ground. If both sides are talking there’s always a chance to grow and build something.”

What would you do to improve the environment in Jesmond?

“There’s a quick fix regarding refuse: we have street sweepers and we need to see that they’re getting used, and that all the rubbish blown from overflowing bins is being picked up. E-scooters have been introduced – if they work for some people, great, but what can be done via bicycle? What short journeys can easily be replaced by active travel? Home working and hybrid working is decreasing the need for a car too. Also bus services are needing to be improved in Jesmond.

“I’m a big fan of public transport and being physically active. The increased cost of living means people are going to use cars less too. Environment is not only about planet earth and climate change. It’s also about people’s quality of life and mental wellbeing. It’s about going out in the street and seeing beautiful wild flowers rather than back streets caked in litter that has been there for six months.”

JesmondLocal will be hosting its local election hustings on Tuesday 3rd of May at Jesmond Library from 7:45pm-9:45pm. Submit your questions for the candidates via the event Facebook page. The event is open to all, so come along to find out more about the candidates, their priorities, policies and plans – and get a chance to have your say.