Longstanding South Wight resident and 2024 General Election candidate, David Groocock, has announced his candidacy for the upcoming Wroxall, Lowtherville and Bonchurch by-election.
The news comes just a few days after Councillor Rodney Downer – who had served for more than 15 years – announced his resignation.
Looking to join the Conservative Group to ensure proper representation in the new committee-style council, David brings his deep local knowledge and determination to protect Island interests.
This won’t be David’s first foray into the world of politics/local democracy after he ran as an independent candidate for Isle of Wight East in the 2024 General Election.
Ventnor hotelier David Groocock first came to the Isle of Wight in 1966 when his parents bought St Maur hotel on Castle Road in Ventnor, and he has lived in the sunny South Wight town ever since. To read more about Groocock, take a look at Island Echo’s sit-down interview with him here.
On the decision to stand, David has said:
“As an Independent, I faced being shut out of decision-making or pressured to support policies I don’t believe in,”
“By joining the Conservatives under Cllr Ed Blake’s leadership, I can properly fight for our community’s needs where it counts – in the council chamber.”
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David highlighted key local issues requiring urgent action, including roads and infrastructure, stating:
“Frequent closures and poor maintenance disrupt daily life – we need proper investment. The ongoing situation with The Graben and Clarence Road is a farce.”
“Our beautiful villages deserve better support to attract visitors year-round.”
“Anti-social behaviour and drug-related crime need firm action. We must ensure quality affordable homes while protecting our rural character.”
While open to considering a mayoral system if it delivers better funding, David warned:
“We mustn’t trade away local control for empty promises. Residents deserve a Councillor who’ll stand firm on what matters. Only Island residents should have a say in their day-to-day living and the future. No other mainland authority can know what day-to-day challenges we face here.”
Councillor Ed Blake welcomed David Groocock’s candidacy:
” David has been the leading campaigner for issues in the Wroxall, Lowtherville and Bonchurch ward for some time. He has led the charge on the reopening of Leeson Road, the ongoing problems with The Graben and helped save Wroxall Primary School from closing. I am absolutely delighted that he wants to join our team on the Isle of Wight Council so that we can carry on standing up for residents and deliver on a better future for all Islanders.”
With the by-election date to be confirmed, David urged voters:
“This is our chance to secure proper representation. Together, we can ensure Wroxall, Lowtherville and Bonchurch’s voice is heard loud and clear.”
I love the 20mph sign, that means the usual
island Numpty’s will be doing 50mph+
I don’t think Islanders know the Highway code.
Lol
There is no way that one can safely go up and down the “graban” any faster, perhaps all roads should be made this way. Better than speed humps.