Portsmouth Reform councillor announces plans to stand for election in Gosport
A city councillor who recently defected to Reform has announced plans to stand for election in a neighbouring town.
Emily Strudwick hopes to be elected as councillor for Leesland and Town in Gosport in the upcoming local elections in May. Cllr Strudwick, who currently sits on Portsmouth City Council, said she would represent both areas if she is elected.
The move comes just over a month after Cllr Strudwick, the former leader of Portsmouth Independents, defected to Reform.
Speaking on her decision, Cllr Strudwick said she has the “time and flexibility” to represent all of her constituents due to being self-employed.
“I have amongst the best attendance records in the entire Portsmouth City Council, and this will not change”, she said.
Cllr Strudwick added: “As we guide through the disaster that is local government reorganisation (LGR) that’s been forced on us by Labour, we need strong local representation to ensure we get the best deal for our local communities.
“I have family ties in Gosport, and the area needs a fresh set of politicians to oversee the many improvements needed to the town.
“Reform UK are that change needed, and collectively across town and county we can make real, effective, positive differences as we go through LGR.”
Under the new council merger plans, which were revealed by the Government last week, Gosport will join Portsmouth, southern parts of East Hampshire and both the Fareham and Havant boroughs to form one council, from April 2028.
The leader of Gosport Borough Council, Liberal Democrat, Peter Chegwyn said the LGR proposals are “bad news for Gosport” and they will not “solve funding issues”.
His council did not submit a proposal to the government.