The polls suggest that we are heading towards a Labour government. If they are right, for Rushcliffe, the choice is simple ... do you want a voice in the next government or not? If you do, you need to vote Labour. Anything else, you are likely to end-up with a backbench MP with limited influence. You are always better to have an MP on the government benches.
1. Have a voice IN government, not out
As a Council Leader covering an area of more than 115,000 people, I know what it means to represent a disparate rural seat like Rushcliffe. I want to make sure that issues in East Leake, Keyworth, Cotgrave and the rural villages are prioritised in the same way as issues in West Bridgford. The constituency as a whole needs to thrive, not just parts of it.
2. Focus on the whole of Rushcliffe
A lot of Rushcliffe residents have told me that they don't feel well-represented at the moment. Their voices aren't heard and their concerns aren't responded to quickly. As your MP, whether fighting for inward investment, calling out Government inaction or simply responding to constituents’ concerns, I will engage promptly and effectively so you know that you're being listened to.
3. Engage and listen to residents
.png)
As a local Labour team, we are committed to working together to demonstrate and implement Labour's values using our public voice. As your MP, I will work with all Rushcliffe councillors to address local failings and to paint a positive vision for the future. We will have one voice at all levels of government and across the wider region.
4. Work hard and as one team locally
Why vote Labour in Rushcliffe? We will...
1. Boosting investment and growth
I will drive Rushcliffe's economic growth by attracting meaningful investment, supporting local workers and boosting productivity through leveraging our strategic location and resources to promote local industries and entrepreneurship.
2. Securing green energy
skills and jobs
I am committed to using my professional background to transform Rushcliffe into a green energy hub with innovative, high-quality, unionised jobs in emerging industries such as hydrogen, with an emphasis on harnessing local resources and talent of all ages.
3. Improving transport and infrastructure
I recognise the need for a comprehensive upgrade of Rushcliffe's infrastructure and transport systems, and to urgently address the risks caused by increased flooding. This means improving road networks, public transport and making rail travel more sustainable.
4. Saving Rushcliffe's
key public services
From health care in Radcliffe-on-Trent and East Leake to education in Ruddington and Cotgrave to emergency services in West Bridgford and across the constituency, I will work hard to secure funding and reform services to enhance delivery.
5. Empowering Rushcliffe communities
I'll strengthen Rushcliffe's communities by promoting vibrant neighbourhood development and inclusive, affordable housing using planning tools such as neighbourhood plans to put you in control. Rushcliffe residents need a stronger say in its future.
For me, standing and winning in Rushcliffe isn't the end-goal - I want to be your voice in parliament because I believe there is lots to do and it needs someone with a bold vision and a coherent plan to deliver the best for Rushcliffe and the wider region.
Rushcliffe is already a great place to live, work and do business. However, there is a lack of strategic place-based leadership today.
Growth is happening organically, meaning many residents and businesses are rightfully concerned about a lack of infrastructure, disappearing green spaces and overstretched public services. Residents need and want to believe that growth is being managed properly - that someone is looking 10 to 15 years ahead and planning for a sustainable future.
My vision for Rushcliffe is clear. It focuses on five key pillars which, beneath them, have a range of practical policies and achievable outcomes.
This plan has been developed by building a database of news stories from across the constituency; engaging residents on the doorstep; and liaising with local councillors. I strongly believe in the need to combine national and local agendas to get the best outcomes for workers, residents and businesses.
Latest
Some of James' supporters:
Helen Fanning
Rushcliffe resident
James is known for being a hardworking, forward-thinking and bold leader. He has so much to offer to Rushcliffe and the wider region which is why I am supporting him at the general election. The country needs fresh voices, fresh energy and fresh ideas
Cllr Chris Grocock
Rushcliffe Borough Council
As the Councillor for a rural ward in Rushcliffe District, I believe James is the right person to be Rushcliffe's voice in parliament. He already knows how to lead a large area in the East Midlands and how to secure investment. He has my full support
Lauren Crow
Rushcliffe business owner
As a business owner, I know that James understands the challenges facing the workforce. He is committed to creating opportunities for everyone to thrive and has a credible plan to do this, which is why I am backing him
Cllr Sue Shaw
Former cabinet member, Bassetlaw
James has been a very effective Council Leader, securing over £60m of government funding and a multi-billion-pound infrastructure project which will genuinely change lives. Bassetlaw’s loss would 100% be Rushcliffe’s gain
.jpg)
My plan for Rushcliffe
1. Boosting investment and growth
I pledge to drive Rushcliffe's economic growth by attracting substantial investments, fostering local businesses, and enhancing productivity. This includes leveraging our strategic location and resources to boost local industries and entrepreneurship. I'll work on creating an environment conducive to business innovation and expansion, ensuring Rushcliffe becomes a magnet for talent, innovation and economic activity.
2. Securing green energy skills and jobs
I am committed to transforming Rushcliffe into a green energy hub by introducing innovative, high-quality jobs in emerging industries such as hydrogen. This will be driven by my experience of bringing fusion energy to North Nottinghamshire. All investment must also create jobs. This is why my focus will be on protecting current industries, protecting workers’ rights, creating new jobs and ensuring that every household and business benefits from cleaner, more affordable energy. This will involve advocating for both government and private investment in green technologies, with an emphasis on harnessing local resources and talent.
3. Improving critical infrastructure
My commitment to Rushcliffe includes a comprehensive upgrade of our infrastructure and transport systems. This means improving road networks, enhancing public transportation, and ensuring efficient connectivity. I will focus on making travel easier, safer, and more sustainable, encouraging active travel, and integrating Rushcliffe more effectively into the regional and national transport network.
4. Saving public services
I am dedicated to ensuring the availability and quality of public services in Rushcliffe. From health care and education to emergency services, I'll work to secure funding, improve facilities and enhance service delivery. My goal is to make sure that every resident has access to excellent public services, contributing to a higher quality of life for all.
5. Empowering communities
I aim to strengthen Rushcliffe's communities by promoting inclusive, affordable housing and vibrant neighbourhood development. My focus will be on creating housing that meets the needs of all, from young families to the elderly. I will advocate for responsible development that respects our environment and heritage, ensuring that Rushcliffe remains a desirable and sustainable place to live and work.
I am standing to be Labour’s parliamentary candidate in Rushcliffe because, as an energy industry professional and current Council Leader, I believe that I have the right mix of experience and vision to lead Rushcliffe over the next few years.
The country is at a significant juncture after 14 years of mismanagement - you only have to look around you to see that things are going backwards. Schools and roads are literally crumbling around us.
I have fought against that narrative locally and led bottom-up efforts to secure a multi-billion-pound investment in the form of a fusion energy prototype plant for Nottinghamshire as well as over £60m of Government grants. Our Local Plan is projected to create almost 10,000 jobs while securing new schools, healthcare investment, new bus services, flood mitigation infrastructure and affordable housing. The same can be done in Rushcliffe.
I believe that I have the foresight, credentials and hand-on experience to give Rushcliffe a proper voice in the national debate and to ensure that Nottinghamshire and the East Midlands gets its fair share of investment. I understand where green investment needs to go and how to get it moving. My professional background means I can work with both private sector bosses and senior politicians to promote this constituency and make the most of its untapped potential.
I believe that I can offer Rushcliffe a fresh, bold and dynamic form of leadership which has been lacking for the past five years. It’s time for change.