WEYMOUTH’s first Green Borough councillor says his top priority is to stand up against endless cuts to local services and to give a voice to people who are not being heard.
Local GP Dr. Jon Orrell last night won Weymouth East in the Weymouth and Portland Borough Council elections. He took 55% of the vote, more than all the other parties put together.
Jon’s victory follows the election of Clare Sutton, who became the first Green on Dorset County Council when she won the Rodwell by election in Weymouth in November.
Green Campaign Manager Caz Dennett said:
“These results show that November was no fluke. They show that if you vote Green locally you can now get Green. The feedback we’ve been getting on the doorsteps is now showing in the ballot box.
“People are saying it is time for a change. They are telling us they want councillors who will fight austerity and work to preserve community values."
Dr. Orrell has already joined Cllr Sutton in organising the Green campaign that has highlighted the health risks caused by traffic pollution on Boot Hill.
Councillor Orrell said:
“As a GP I treat the sick, as a Green councillor I will treat the causes of sickness.
“Poor air quality, and damp, overcrowded housing for many people living in Weymouth are two big issues I want to tackle.
“My other priorities include pushing for more support for sustainable local foodstuffs and for better local transport services. The Greens are clear about the threats of a trashed planet and opportunities for a third industrial revolution of renewables.
“My aim is to help make Weymouth East a healthier place to live“.
Weymouth East result:
Jon Orrell Green Party 573
Conservatives 220
Ukip 133
Labour 109