Fighting for a better deal in the local area

Stuart Borrowman says:“Armadale, Blackridge, Torphichen and Westfield should come first for any local councillor representing the ward.

“That’s never an issue for me as a local independent whereas party politicians often find themselves voting for resources to go elsewhere.

“My area has had above its share of capital resources in the past five years because that was the basis of my co-operation with the political administration. That additional money has helped make possible improvements at St Anthony’s, Blackridge; and Torphichen schools. I will support any administration in the council only if it continues to offer Armadale and Blackridge Ward a fair share.

“I am privileged to have the chance to fight for a better deal for my area. The main issues for the new council will be managing budget pressures (which will be the case whoever’s in government in London or Edinburgh), keeping a healthy share of capital spending for this area, addressing the declining bus services on which so many people depend, ensuring planning is better focused on facilities keeping pace with development (most notably, to press NHS Lothian for an additional GP practice in Armadale), sustaining recent improvements in schools and extending them to all schools and improving customer satisfaction with council services by supporting frontline staff.”