Alliance economy committee chair Julie Jones-Evans has three opponents from the Liberal Democrats, Reform UK and the Tories in the Isle of Wight Council elections.
Her Newport Central ward is contested by Norman Arnold (Liberal Democrat), Stephen Bird (Local Conservatives) and Emerson Maguire (Reform UK), with residents due to cast a ballot on 7th May.
The Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS) contacted candidates for 100-word pitches and photos, either directly or via parties or groups.
Norman Arnold
No response
Stephen Bird
I have lived on the Island since 2000. My daughter was educated at Godshill Primary School, went to Christ the King College in Newport and then to university.
I ran a convenience store while my wife ran the post office in Godshill for some years giving me a strong understanding of both local business and rural life.
We enjoy walking our Dog Teddy, spending time in the countryside, I value our bridleways and cycle routes across the Island.
I want to see the Island well run, with reliable services, careful spending, good schools, a council listening to residents and working to protect what makes our area such a special place.
Julie Marie Jones-Evans (incumbent ward councillor)
I grew up in Newport and still live and work here as a shopkeeper — this town is my home. I’ve been your independent councillor for Newport Central since 2009, working for our ward and the wider Island — helping residents, solving problems and delivering improvements.
That includes tackling empty shops, introducing residents’ parking, improving pedestrian safety and supporting young people through projects like The PORT.
I don’t just talk about the issues — I focus on getting things done and delivering real improvements. I have the experience to steer the council through challenging times, and I’m standing again to continue that work.
Emerson Maguire
I have lived and worked on the Island for 15 years and share your experience of poor council services and the high bills that pay for them. I am standing because I want Newport Central to be a place families can build a future, businesses thrive, and council services work as they should.
There is much potential in Newport, but something must be done with the empty units, cleanliness issues and the need for a safer, more welcoming environment for families and visitors. I would work constructively with businesses, the council and police to push for practical improvements to make Newport a place where people want to live and visit.
