The election result announced yesterday was of course a disappointment to us. Although our share of the vote in Hanover and Elm Grove did increase slightly, the Greens did win resoundingly and we congratulate them for that, and for their performance across the city.
I for one have really enjoyed the last six months worth of campaigning. I've really got to know the ward and come to appreciate even more its positives, in particular the sense of community, and the thoughtfulness with which many people in this area approach politics. I've had some really interesting conversations and heard a great variety of views which will stay with me.
I've also appreciated some of the challenges the area faces, in particular with managing the large number of houses of multiple occupancy, rubbish in the streets, parking, and traffic/cycling on the Lewes Road. My biggest regret at not being elected is that I can't help to tackle some of these issues in the same way that an elected councillor would. But I will continue to take an interest. The elected Green councillors have promised action on all of these things, and Labour will be taking a keen interest to see what they will deliver. In Hanover and Elm Grove, as in much of central Brighton, Labour is the main opposition to the Greens and we will be scrutinising their performance in exactly the same way that they would do to us. Every elected party that holds power should be held to account, and a robust opposition is an important part of that accountability.
As Labour Group leader Gill Mitchell said yesterday, Labour will not disappear from any corner of the city, and this ward is no exception. I hope to see you in the ward soon, and thanks to those of you who supported us.
Tracey Hill
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