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May 2026 West Surrey County Council Elections – Worplesdon Ward

Published on: 1 May, 2026
Updated on: 1 May, 2026

Candidates for Local Elections May 2026 for West Surrey County Council – Guildford Area

The old SCC divisions have become the new West Surrey Council wards, each represented by two councillors.

Worplesdon Ward

Each candidate was asked to respond to the following:

  • Why are you standing for election to the West Surrey County Council on May 7?
  • What are the two biggest issues in your ward? What will you be able to do about them?
  • Can you give your word that you will put your residents’ interests before those of your party?

Akhtar, Bilal Hassan                                          Conservative Party

I have represented the residents of Worplesdon ward on Guildford Borough Council since being elected in 2023, and I currently serve as the Conservative Deputy Group Leader.

Over the last three years, I have enjoyed supporting residents, tackling casework, and addressing local concerns with a practical, results-focused approach. I am now standing so I can continue to serve our community.

My priorities are clear: protecting our valued green spaces, ensuring that any development is properly planned and supported by infrastructure, and resisting speculative building that does not meet local needs.

I will work to improve road safety, support local services, and strengthen community facilities. I am also committed to improving support for children and families with special educational needs, ensuring they have access to the resources and opportunities they deserve.

I will ensure the voices of our villages are heard while delivering sensible, balanced solutions for residents.

 

Berry, Andrew James                                      Reform – Changing Politics for Good

Profile not provided

 

 

 

Broadhurst, Kate                                          Reform – Changing Politics for Good

I’m standing because Worplesdon deserves a strong, local voice that will protect what makes these villages special. Having grown up with deep ties to the area, I care about  preserving their character while making sure residents are properly represented and listened to.

Residents are rightly concerned about overdevelopment and the pressure it puts on our countryside and infrastructure. I will challenge inappropriate developments, protect  green spaces, and push for decisions that reflect local needs, not top-down targets.

Fly-tipping is a growing problem, so I will push for tougher enforcement and more practical, cost-effective waste solutions. I also want clearer communication and better traffic management so residents aren’t left in the dark and our roads remain safe and usable.

Residents before party? Residents come before party — always. We may not share the same views, but I respect every perspective and treat everyone equally, with respect and fairness.

Creese, Brian Jeffrey                                        Labour Party

These elections are the most important for many years. A completely new council is being created and crucial decisions will be made which will affect West Surrey for many years to come. It is vital this new council includes viewpoints from all sides of the political spectrum and represent the entire community.

My main concern is for the young people in Worplesdon. They do not have enough affordable housing, the bus network is too little and too expensive, rural jobs are hard to find and poorly paid and the police are rarely seen in the villages.

Worplesdon is a large division with mixed rural and urban areas, which could be easily neglected by the new council. Having lived here for over 7 years I feel I understand its various needs and If elected I will ensure Worplesdon will have the representation it needs and deserves.  Worplesdon deserves better!

Felgate, Matthew Stephen                                    Liberal Democrats

I’m a dad, a local professional, and someone who believes this community deserves better than being an afterthought.

Right now, Worplesdon faces a once-in-a-generation change. The new West Surrey unitary authority will shape our roads, our green spaces, and our local services for decades. We need someone at that table who knows this area and actually cares about it. Not a party machine politician ticking a box.

I work in engineering and manufacturing. I solve real problems for a living. I don’t do waffle.

I’ve walked Pirbright’s commons and heathland for years and I’m not prepared to see them swallowed up by poor planning decisions. Neighbours have told me they’re worried about overdevelopment, disappearing green belt, and a council that feels remote and unaccountable. Those concerns deserve a fighter, not a passenger.

I volunteer at Guildford Repair Café and have been involved with Guildford Zero, because talk without action means nothing.

 Lord, Jonathan George Caladine                       Conservative Party

Jonathan Lord served as the Chairman of Guildford Conservative Association for 3 years and then as the Member of Parliament for Woking for 14 years.

Previously he has also served as the Deputy Leader of Westminster Council and as a Surrey County Councillor for a division in West Surrey.

As Woking’s MP, Jonathan represented the villages of Normandy and Pirbright for 14 years, chairing the local Flood Forums, helping to lead a highly successful defence of local green belt land, and helping to secure significant funding for the Pirbright sports pavilion and the Normandy shop and cafe.

Martin, Jason                                                        Liberal Democrats

I’m a young passionate person committed to strengthening relationships and taking meaningful action. Through regular volunteering with local charities, I’ve supported vulnerable residents in practical, everyday ways, whether that’s helping someone get to the shops or simply being there when it matters.

I’m standing for this new council to bring that same hands on approach into local decision making. I believe every community deserves a real voice in shaping its future, with change guided by the people it affects, rather than imposed on them.

Those who know me describe me as a passionate and thoughtful leader, someone who listens, understands local challenges, and works creatively to address them especially on issues like environmental responsibility and community wellbeing.

Having lived in Pirbright Army Camp, I experienced a strong sense of togetherness which I want to help build across West Surrey, so everyone feels heard, supported, and connected.

 

McElduff, Alex                                                      Green Party

Profile not provided

 

 

 

Sarma, Jayden                                                    Green Party

Profile not provided

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