Category: Committees

Cllr Rod Jones

Rod lives in Dunmow with his wife and their dog Freddie. He retired from the Armed forces after 25 years in 2015. He became a member of R4U a few years later and was elected to both Uttlesford District Council and Great Dunmow Town Council.

“To be a councillor is a great honour and privilege. I will always be fair, transparent and responsible to the people that I represent. I can’t promise perfection or that I can change the world; I can promise to be open, approachable and act in your interest and not mine.” Rod Jones

WardRolesAbout/BioContact

Find about roles and responsibilities by reading the councillor profiles, declarations of interest, portfolio ownership and committee membership on specific council websites

Rod lives in Dunmow with his wife and their dog Freddie. He retired from the Armed forces after 25 years in 2015. He became a member of R4U a few years later and was elected to both Uttlesford District Council and Great Dunmow Town Council.

Where do you live and how long have you lived in the area?

I live in Great Dunmow and moved here in 2015 after retiring from the Armed Forces after 25 years of service.  I have visited and worked in many counties and countries; Dunmow is where we have chosen to make our home.

What councillor (e.g., parish) or political experience do you have?

I was elected as a Great Dunmow Town and District Councillor in May 2019.

Are their work details that you may want to highlight that add to your experience?

The military teaches you to be direct, make decisions based on the information to hand and then get on with the job!  As a councillor you do exactly the same thing, but working with a democratic mandate.  Any decision-making system requires honesty, the willingness to learn, and the ability to take responsibility for the decisions you make whether as a collective or individually.

Are you involved in a community or residents’ groups, boards, charities, or volunteering?

I am a member of the Friends Of The Flitch Way and when I can spare the time, I volunteer for their work parties to help maintain the nationally recognised bridleway and cycle trail.

I have campaigned and continue to improve a local byway damaged by irresponsible ‘off-roaders’

I have been active in trying to get a safer crossing built across the Ongar Road and the Chelmsford Road.  I have long campaigned for improvements to the ‘Little Monsters’ and Hoblongs Junctions due to the number of accidents that have and continue to occur at these junctions.

I am a trustee of the Dunmow Museum as part of my role as a District Councillor.

I am the Armed Forces Covenant Champion for Uttlesford; a role I hope to continue into the future.

I volunteered during the pandemic at Stansted Surgery for updating patient records and reception helper. My wife also volunteered to administer vaccines.

Why did you first stand for election, what are your hot topics and what would you like to achieve?

I stood as a councillor because I believe local decisions should be made by local people that are neither affiliated to or represent national party politics.  To be truly local means putting those you represent before your own or your parties’ interests.

Why did you think that standing for Residents for Uttlesford was important?

Local government decisions should not be based on the colour of a rosette or how your national party ‘whips’ you. Hard decisions have to be made and so should be done on evidence, cross party, and without forgetting the effect on current and future generations. After all, making people’s lives better or trying to mitigate the negative effects of things outside of our control is what we all should be striving to achieve.

R4U became the majority party in the District Council for good reason.  The work to improve the district is ongoing.  In the first term of R4U leadership years I have seen the dedication of fellow R4U Councillors in representing their wards and parishes.  I have witnessed R4U Councillors work above and beyond in order to improve Uttlesford.  R4U councillors have the courage to publicly disagree with their peers and party.  I am honoured to be a member of and stand for such a party of diverse personal and political opinion, work and life experience.

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    R4U opposes government moves to strip away local planning control that could see ‘tens-of-thousands of houses dumped on Uttlesford’

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    Residents for Uttlesford (R4U) is strongly opposed to the government’s proposals to strip control of planning from local councils. R4U vice chair Dan Starr said “We must be clear; this …read more →

    Uttlesford District Council votes to start new Local Plan after serial failures by previous administration

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    Councillors at R4U led Uttlesford District Council have voted to start a new Local Plan ‘from scratch’ after Inspectors found the past two plans submitted by the previous administration to …read more →

    Two major appeal wins prevent 224 unsustainable homes on the edge of Newport

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    Residents have been celebrating in Newport after they won two appeals against the unsustainable development of more than 200 new homes in their village. The appeals were fought by a …read more →

    Cllr Arthur Coote

    Arthur Coote is a well-respected Saffron Walden town councillor for the Castle ward. He was born in the town where he lives with his wife. He’s a director of the Bell Nursery and active in many other aspects of town life.

    “I’m a strong believer that councils can work harder to do more to create an environment that allows the next generation to grow and give back to society. Through its actions R4U has shown it focuses on the issues that matter and cares about making a difference for local people. After years of being actively engaged with Labour, I joined R4U because they’ve shown that they are the party willing to work collaboratively for local people.” Arthur Coote

    Several councillors have switched to R4U from the traditional parties because being free of a national agenda allows them to focus 100% on local residents with local issues.  Nationally Arthur is a long time Labour Party supporter. He was elected as a councillor to Saffron Walden Town Council in 2015 and to Uttlesford District Council in 2019. He was mayor of Saffron Walden for the 2019/2020 year.

    WardRolesAbout/BioContact

    Find about roles and responsibilities by reading the councillor profiles, declarations of interest, portfolio ownership and committee membership on specific council websites

    Arthur Coote is a well-respected Saffron Walden town councillor. He was born in the town where he lives with his wife. Arthur is active in many aspects of town life including the Baptist Church. Key interest areas for him are community, equality, youth development and sports.

    He’s is a family man who is committed to youth development. Arthur is a director and manager of the Bell Nursery in Saffron Walden and member of the charity Professional Association for Childcare and Early Years (PACEY). Two of his children have followed him into education as both are head-teachers, and the third has followed a career in law.

    Arthur is a lifelong member of Essex Cricket Club and a strong advocate for sports and healthy lifestyles. He’s been active in the funding and design of new playgrounds by Saffron Walden Town Council, and been working to provide more open spaces and sports facilities.

    Nationally and locally Arthur has been a long-time supporter of the Labour Party. He was elected as a councillor to Saffron Walden Town Council in 2015 and serves as Mayor for the 2019/2020 year. Like a number of councillors from all the main national parties, he joined R4U to create a difference locally.

    Arthur Coote says “Over the last 50 years I have taken part in hundreds of campaigns for Labour candidates. I have stood for office to try to create a more equal society and have been a member of the National Executive Committee of the Labour Party. Over the last 4 years it’s become clear that the best way to represent local residents and uphold the ideals I stand for at the district council is by joining R4U. R4U has shown they care about the community’s future and want to create a positive difference for local people. They’ve proven that they are the only party that has the skills and support to deliver for local people. In my mind it’s simple: I will continue to vote for Labour on national issues, but am standing for R4U to deliver local things for local residents. I urge others to vote local Resident for local matters.”

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      Cllr Patrick Lavelle

      Patrick is an R4U councillor for the Uttlesford Dunmow South & Barnston Ward. A career in pharma gives Patrick perspective into the region’s most important industry and UDC’s £50m investment in it. As Mayor of Great Dunmow Patrick has focused on rebuilding the community following the disruption caused by the COVID lockdowns and promoting Great Dunmow as a great place to live, work and enjoy yourself.

      “Residents need strong representation to ensure that their views and heard and acted on. One of the biggest concerns in the area is new housing. Along with new housing we need to protect the environment and include the necessary infrastructure and recreational facilities to support the needs of both current and future residents.” Patrick Lavelle

      WardRolesAbout/BioContact

      Find about roles and responsibilities by reading the councillor profiles, declarations of interest, portfolio ownership and committee membership on specific council websites

      Patrick Lavelle took early retirement after a successful 35 year career in the pharmaceutical industry. His career in the pharma sector gives him a unique perspective into one of our region’s most important industries, including being able to support UDC’s  investment in Chesterford Research Park.

      Other areas that interest Patrick are policing and reducing crime, and the issues related to large new housing developments in the area.

      As a councillor he works to ensure that new housing proposals are properly scrutinised and development controlled to benefit residents. He believes that it is important to make sure that due consideration is given to the impact on the environment, on the local services (schools, medical facilities and recreational facilities) as well as supporting infrastructure including not just vehicular access but also public transport, cycling and walking access.

      Patrick lives in the ward he represents.

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        Cllr Geof Driscoll

        Geof has lived in Uttlesford for 20+ years. After a 30 year career in senior management in road-haulage, he is now vice-chair of Uttlesford District Council, where he also sits on the scrutiny, governance, and audit committees, highways panel, and housing board.

        “I believe that we should always fight for local residents. I feel that there is a correct balance between protecting our heritage and investing in the future for the youth of our district. I strongly believe that we, the residents of Uttlesford, have a right to control local issues not be told by national parties “this is what will be good for you.” Geof Driscoll

        WardRolesAbout/BioContact

        Find about roles and responsibilities by reading the councillor profiles, declarations of interest, portfolio ownership and committee membership on specific council websites

        Where do you live?

        I have lived in Birchanger for the last 22+ years with my wife Angie.

        Do you have any councillor or political experience?

        I served on the Birchanger Parish Council for eight years in the early 2000s until work responsibilities altered my available hours. I am now retired and have been an Uttlesford District Councillor since 2019. I an currently vice-chair of Uttlesford District Council, as I also sit on the scrutiny, governance, and audit committees, highways panel, and housing board.

        Any work details that you may want to highlight that add to your experience?

        In addition to 12 years as a local councillor, I am a qualified transport manager, with over 30 years of international experience including divisional management for a blue-chip multinational organisation. I have operated my own transport consultancy (compliance and training) since 2009 and am an avid supporter of Road Safety.

        Do you participate in community or residents’ groups, boards, or charities?

        I was Birchanger’s local Poppy Appeal organiser for 15 years raising approximately £50,000 for ex-servicemen and women. I currently sit on the Birchanger Sports and Social Club committee, as well as on the Freight Transport Association Easton Region Council.

        Why did you stand for Residents for Uttlesford?

        As residents of Uttlesford, national issues and local issues rarely carry the same weight in our daily lives. Of course, everyone has the right to vote for which person/party they wish, but only locally focused parties can deliver specific local democracy. By providing real, transparent leadership R4U, at a local level is representing our local interests.

        By reorganising the way UDC is structured, and by using the best skills and tools available, R4U has been able to deliver higher levels of services. But we need four more years to deliver on our programme of improvement at UDC. Let’s all make sure we make the most of where we love to live – together.

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          Cllr John Evans

          John has lived in Stebbing for 30 years. He’s a strong advocate for residents having a stronger say in what happens locally. He’s used his position as a district councillor and UDC portfolio holder for Planning and Infrastructure, the Local Plan, and Stansted Airport to do just that. Outside of the council, he’s a solicitor and interested in heritage and our rural landscape. He previous served a chair of the successful Stebbing Neighbourhood Plan.

          “Whilst the fear of the Conservatives’ West-of-Braintree new town has receded since R4U was elected, we must remain active and vigilant to protect our rural life from over-development – and residents must always have a say in what happens.” John Evans

          WardRolesAbout/BioContact

          Find about roles and responsibilities by reading the councillor profiles, declarations of interest, portfolio ownership and committee membership on specific council websites

          John has lived in Stebbing for 30 years, and prior to that 10 years in Hatfield Heath, so is very familiar with and supportive of both Ward and District interests. He has served as UDC Cabinet Member for Planning, the Local Plan, Stansted Airport and Infrastructure while appointed also to a number of external bodies. He was privileged to chair the Stebbing Neighbourhood Plan Steering Group, whose Plan was passed successfully last Summer. As Cabinet Member, he has been a strong advocate for neighbourhood planning and spoken widely in the community in support. He is particularly interested in heritage and landscape matters and serves as Vice Chair of Stebbing Local History Society. He is a Solicitor and also sits as an Arbitrator.

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            Cllr Neil Reeve

            Neil Reeve is an experienced Chartered Engineer with 40+ years’ experience. He was previously the chair of an energy industry division of ISO, the international standard-setting organisation. He is a councillor at High Easter Parish Council. At Uttlesford District Council he is currently Portfolio Holder for the Economy, Investment and Corporate Plan. In his spare time he volunteers for nature conservancy causes.

            “It’s very straightforward. We need a second term to finish the job at UDC. As a Ward Member for Broad Oak and the Hallingburys, I’ve really valued working with the four parish councils, and my colleague Geof Driscoll. I feel that we are helping the community and making a difference. I remain frustrated by the Westminster driven parties. We have found a lot wrong with what we inherited at UDC. We are putting a lot right, but there is still much to do. It’s very important that residents are listened to. We do that. We need local residents’ views, local decisions, and more local infrastructure” Neil Reeve

            WardRolesAbout/BioContact

            Find about roles and responsibilities by reading the councillor profiles, declarations of interest, portfolio ownership and committee membership on specific council websites

            Where you live and how long you’ve lived in the area?

            My wife and I have had a home in Uttlesford for more than 20 years. After my retirement in 2012 I became increasingly involved in village, parish and local issues. Prior to this we lived and worked all over the world, including Malaysia, South Korea, Denmark, New Zealand and The Netherlands.

            Our three children each have their own families (giving us 5 grandchildren in total) and lead diverse lives. One lives in Kent and works for Kent County Council. One lives in Holland and works in the University of Utrecht Library. One is currently working for Oxfam in Myanmar.

            Any councillor or political experience you may have?

            I’ve been a UDC councillor for the Broad Oak and the Hallingburys ward since 2019 and at UDC I lead the Economy, Business, Council Strategy and Investments portfolios. I am also a member of the High Easter Parish Council.

            Any work details that you may want to highlight that add to your experience?

            I am a Chartered Engineer with approximately 40 years of international experience. I worked with Royal Dutch Shell until I retired from them in 2012. For the first third of my career I worked as a Structural Engineer designing, building and maintaining offshore platforms. Thereafter I developed Shell’s system of specifications and standards for all their operations worldwide. In this capacity, I became chair of the committee in an International Organization for Standardisation (ISO) responsible for international standards the oil and gas industry. I maintained this role till mid-2019. I have learned how to listen to very diverse groups and lead the parties to an agreement (a consensus standard).

            Are you involved in any community or residents’ groups, boards, charities, or volunteering?

            I’m a director, trustee and treasurer of the East of England Apples and Orchards Project (EEAOP). This is a charity, with a trading arm (i.e. under Charities Commission and Companies House), whose aim is the collect and conserve the region’s heritage fruit trees; and get these (re-)planted throughout the region.

            I am also a treasurer, and committee member of the Essex Beekeepers Association (EBKA) (Braintree Division).

            Why did you stand for Residents for Uttlesford?

            I was impressed that in a short time Residents for Uttlesford had already made an impact for our district. In 4 years of leading UDC, we’ve made significant improvements for residents. We need 4 more years to finish the job.

            The key point is that R4U is a party for local issues, not national ones. It can therefore be more agile to steer the district council in a direction that residents in the Uttlesford want, rather than as directed by a Westminster-based party.

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              Cllr Sandi Merifield

              Sandi Merifield is very active in Stebbing and has served on Stebbing Parish Council for over 15 years. She has helped organise Stebbing Fete for many years and is the local coordinator of the Poppy Appeal Collection. She is one of the two R4U Uttlesford District Councillors for the Felsted and Stebbing ward and chairs the UDC Planning Committee, as well as serving on other committees in and outside of the Council.

              “I believe in listening to and working with the community, fighting for the rights of residents and aiming to find the balance between protecting our communities and enhancing our children’s future.” Sandi Merifield

              WardRolesAbout/BioContact

              Find about roles and responsibilities by reading the councillor profiles, declarations of interest, portfolio ownership and committee membership on specific council websites

              Sandi says:

              I live in Stebbing with my husband, our two dogs and cat. We moved here nearly 29 years ago with our three children and have counted ourselves very lucky ever since to live in this Ward in Uttlesford and be part of this community.

              I have served on Stebbing Parish Council for over 15 years including on most of its committees., chairing and member, the most recent Greener Stebbing which is a new committee. This has and continues to be a most rewarding and enlightening experience. Helping greatly with my understanding of the needs of residents. At UDC I chair the Planning Committee.

              I coordinate the Poppy Appeal Collection annually in Stebbing and have been a member of the Stebbing Fete organising committee for many years Having had a career in Education in both secondary schools and colleges I became a governor at a local Nursery & Primary school.

              I believe in listening and working with the community, fighting for the rights of residents, and aiming to find the balance between protecting our communities and enhancing our children’s future.

              I have long believed that National party politics should not play a part in local democracy. Local issues need to be addressed by a locally focussed party that understands and supports local interests. I believe that R4U is, by reorganising how UDC is structured and using the best skills available. By working together with our communities, we will achieve this.

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