'Enough is enough': New independent political party Shropshire First unveils local elections 2025 plans

A new independent group that says it will prioritise local concerns over politics is putting a number of candidates forward at the Shropshire local elections.

Shropshire First, which was officially set up on January 1, says it is a group of like-minded independent individuals who believe ‘enough is enough’.

“We’re tired of seeing local issues overlooked in favour of political manoeuvring, and we are committed to delivering real change at both town and county levels,” said a spokesperson.

“Our mission is clear — putting the needs of Shropshire’s residents first, without the influence of national politics.”

The group has laid out several aims and objectives – from bins to street lights – to potholes and GP access, and it explains how it will finance its ambitions.

In total, Shropshire First has confirmed 11 candidates that will be standing in the Shropshire and town and parish councils on May 1.

“The idea had been building for some time as a response to what we were hearing locally — a real appetite for an independent, Shropshire-focused voice in local politics as well as what sitting councillors were personally experiencing within the council chamber,” said Verity Dean, Shropshire First’s deputy leader who is standing in the Whittington division, as well as the Victoria ward of Oswestry Town Council.

“I’ve spent my career bringing people together to solve problems and create positive change.

“Playing the blame game is just a waste of time – we can all point fingers, but what’s the point? What really matters is looking forward, finding the good ideas, and focusing on what’s actually needed.”

The group’s leader, Steve Davenport, and George Smith, treasurer, will be standing in St Martins, as well as Weston Rhyn and Ellesmere Rural.

St Martins has seen its ward double in size, meaning that it will now have two councillors.

“For me, its vitally important to be front and centre of the community, listening to comments from residents, assisting at every stage, representing you at Shropshire Council and holding the council to account,” said Mr Davenport.

The group is also putting up three councillors in Oswestry – business owner Matt Dunne-Smith for Oswestry South; local bus driver John Price for Oswestry North East, Barry Onions for Oswestry North, while Maria Ogden will stand in the Maserfield ward of the town council.

Meanwhile, self-employed welder Simon Harris will stand for Broseley, James Gittins, who runs a landscaping business, will fight it out in Bridgnorth East, and Andrew Hancox will try his luck in Highley. Daisy Whiteman is another member who will stand in Much Wenlock Town Council.

More information about Shropshire First can be found by visiting shropshirefirst.com

The full list of candidates standing in the Shropshire Council and town and parish councils are here: Shropshire local elections 2025: Full list of candidates vying to be your next councillor