Meet Your By-Election Candidates: Dale Layman for Reform UK

Published on: 13 Oct, 2025
Updated on: 13 Oct, 2025

Dale Layman

The upcoming by-election for the Surrey County Council Guildford South-East division will be held later this week, Thursday October 16, following the resignation of Cllr Fiona Davidson of R4GV.

The Guildford Dragon asked the standing candidates about their policies and perspectives.

This is what Dale Layman, the Reform UK candidate, had to say…

Why should the voters of Guildford South East vote for you and your party?

“I’ve lived in Guildford for over 30 years and understand the frustration many residents feel – high council tax, poor services, and endless excuses.

“I’m standing for Reform UK because it’s the only party ready to tackle waste, restore integrity, and demand accountability in local government.

“I’ll bring business discipline, common sense, and the principle that residents’ money must be treated as if it were my own.”

Should voters consider national issues in a county council by-election?

“Local decisions don’t exist in isolation. The government’s LGR [Local Government Reorganisation Plans] plans are dictated from Westminster.

“Small independents have no leverage to challenge these diktats, and the main parties have failed to protect residents’ interests. Reform UK is the only challenger with real national momentum — strong enough to speak truth to power and defend Guildford’s future.”

What are the three main issues in the Guildford South-East division?

1. Financial competence

“End mismanagement so residents’ money funds frontline services, not vanity schemes. GBC’s Weyside Urban Village project is running a multi-million-pound deficit, and auditors have issued a “disclaimer of opinion” on its accounts — a red flag for taxpayers.”

2. Housing with infrastructure

“Support development that brings schools, roads, and local services. I’ll prioritise brownfield regeneration and smarter use of derelict sites over unsustainable greenfield sprawl.”

3. Transport freedom

“Back motorists and oppose punitive traffic policies such as ULEZ-style charges, blanket 20mph zones, and costly Vision Zero measures.”

What qualities would you bring to the role of county councillor?

“After 30 years in the pharmaceutical sector, I know how to lead, listen and deliver under pressure. I’m practical, not ideological, and driven by a strong sense of duty to my community.”

What is your view of the local government reorganisation proposals? Do you think unitary authorities are preferable to the existing system and will truly save money?

“Reform UK believes reform should mean real devolution – bringing decision-making closer to communities.

“The current top-down plan lacks consultation and transparency. With no updated cost–benefit analysis, the government’s claims don’t stand up.”

How important are environmental issues to Guildford?

“Very important, but they must be approached with realism, not ideology.

“We need cleaner air and greener spaces, but not at the cost of affordability, mobility, or common sense.”

Is there a single improvement Surrey Police could make to law enforcement locally?

“Visibility – plain and simple. People feel safer when they see policing in action. We need more officers on the ground, patrolling neighbourhoods and high streets – not tied up in paperwork.

“The public wants reassurance, deterrence and fast response times. Restoring visible, local policing would rebuild confidence and make residents feel protected again.”

Can you promise to put your constituents first, before any party loyalty?

“I’m standing to represent the people of Guildford South East, not to climb a party ladder. Reform UK candidates are free from whipped votes and career ambitions – we’re here to serve communities.

“My loyalty is to residents who pay the bills and deserve honesty, value and straight answers. They come first.”