16 April 2022

Introducing Emma Wallace your Green candidate for North Harrow

I have lived in North Harrow for over a decade and in that time got to know the area well, making use of the many local businesses, services and excellent transport links that we are lucky to have here. I am a keen cyclist, regularly exploring the local area and wider green spaces. I have found that increasing developments and congested streets have made Harrow's roads feel increasingly unsafe for cyclists and pedestrians to use though. I would consequently like to see the Council prioritise funding public transport, as well as cycling and walking infrastructure in Harrow.  I fully support Healthy Streets for Harrow's five recommendations to help create #ClimateSafeStreets in Harrow.   

I have actively campaigned in Harrow on a range of issues over the last ten years, speaking out against the 265 The Ridgeway tower block development in North Harrow at last summer’s Council planning meeting and most recently, opposing the appeal. I have supported local volunteer initiatives to develop green spaces, including the new Headstone Green and the creation London’s first wood meadow at Pinner Recreation Ground.  These spaces promote biodiversity and help people access the physical and mental health benefits of nature.  Indeed, we are lucky to have so many parks, nature reserves and green spaces in Harrow, yet many have suffered from years of neglect due to unprecedented environmental Council budget cuts.  If elected, I would push the Council to create a long-term, connected strategy that recognises the important role our parks and green spaces play in supporting a range of statutory services, from public health, social care and the environment.

Last year, I requested new street trees for Pinner Road in North Harrow, and it has been great to see them recently planted and beginning to bud. I would like to see a more consistent and thorough street planting programme across the borough though, with the Council taking much wider initiatives to support and enhance our local nature and tackle the dangerous levels of air pollution. This includes, reducing the frequency of cutting and mowing grass verges and investing in electric equipment to manage the borough’s green spaces. By taking these steps the Council will show that they are serious about addressing the climate emergency, which they declared in 2019 and have as yet, not made the urgent priority that it is.

Despite Harrow residents now being faced with the second highest council tax in London, we have witnessed swingeing cuts to vital local services, from public libraries to the frequency of street cleaning. The Green Party is the only party that has progressive policies to ensure that we have well financed public services, which are there to support every resident.

Harrow needs fresh ideas and a new voice to stand up for everyone in society to create a sustainable, fair, green and healthy borough for all to live in.  As a Green Councillor for North Harrow, I would be a strong advocate for the area, listening to local concerns and making sure residents voices are represented and acted upon in the Council. #VoteGreen this May

Emma Wallace 

Vote Emma Wallace for North Harrow #VoteGreen

View our full list of Harrow Local Election candidates

Tweet