Local Experience, Proven Results: James King
I have lived and worked in this area my entire life. From my time as a Scout Leader to serving as a local school governor, I am deeply rooted in our community. I became a Councillor to give back to the place I call home, and I am now seeking to bring my 10 years of experience to represent Banstead, Woodmansterne and Chipstead on the new East Surrey Council.
A Track Record of Delivery
While serving on Reigate & Banstead Borough Council, I have focused on tangible improvements for residents. I am proud to have delivered:
- Recreational Facilities: Secured funding for a new outdoor gym, a community boules pitch, and a new skate park.
- Infrastructure Improvements: Helped secure funding for a 5G football pitch and a new car park for a local sports club, alongside supporting various small-scale community projects.
- Modernising Services: As a member of the Executive, I oversaw a vital update of the Council’s IT equipment to ensure more efficient and reliable services for residents.
- Environmental Protection: Led the successful planning refusal of a proposed crematorium in Reigate, preventing the loss of valuable community open space.
- Supporting our Armed Forces: Successfully pushed the Council to achieve the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme Silver Accreditation, ensuring we properly support those who serve.
Professional Expertise for our New Council
As an Actuary who has worked at Just in Reigate and Legal & General in Kingswood, I bring a high level of financial scrutiny to local government. Having served on the Executive with responsibility for Policy and Performance, I have ensured the Council remains well-run and accountable. I want to ensure the new East Surrey Council starts with a foundation of fiscal discipline by:
- Balancing the Budget: Replicating a strong record of financial responsibility.
- Protecting Services: Ensuring above and beyond services remain a priority.
- Lowering Tax Pressure: Keeping council tax bills as low as possible through efficient management.
Responsible Planning for our Towns & Villages
With eight years of experience on the Planning Committee, I understand the balance required to keep our area a great place to live. I am committed to ensuring that any future developments:
- Respect Resident Views: Putting the community at the heart of the decision-making process.
- Protect the Countryside: Ensuring new projects are sympathetic to our unique and beautiful Surrey landscape.