In our latest councillor’s column, Thomas Fawns says there is much to look forward to in his ward

*Thomas Fawns was elected in May as a Labour councillor for Upper Edmonton (credit Enfield Council)*

In May I was elected as a new Labour councillor for Upper Edmonton ward, where I was born. I decided to get involved in politics because of my non-verbal autistic brother, who inspired me to use my own voice to speak truth to power in the interests of justice and equality.

I am honoured to have earned the trust of those living in Upper Edmonton at the ballot box in the recent local elections. I’m also proud that the residents I represent chose Labour, who put forward a manifesto that reflects the values of putting people first.

As a candidate, and now as a councillor, I pledge to continuously liaise with residents at my weekly surgeries and with local community groups, that play such an important role in our borough. I also recognise that my role as an active councillor requires me to represent the concerns of residents to Enfield Council officers and other local partners like the NHS and Metropolitan Police.

I have attended Cape (Community Action Partnership in Enfield) meetings and Edmonton ward forums to stay updated about the local rates of crime and anti-social behaviour. Enfield’s Labour council already funds extra police officers – after years of Conservative government cuts to local police budgets. Despite this, our manifesto pledged to introduce new civil enforcement officers alongside new CCTV in crime hotspots. We will always remain informed on these matters, as safety is essential for our community to thrive.

I also share the aspirations of Upper Edmonton residents who want investment in the area. That’s why I’m so pleased that Edmonton has received huge economic investment from Enfield Council, including the £6billion Meridian Water project which will create thousands of new homes and job opportunities in construction and the film industry. Additionally, there are regeneration schemes such as the one which will redevelop Joyce Avenue and Snells Park estates, which has been overwhelmingly approved by 78.5% of residents.

This year has been an incredible cultural success for Upper Edmonton. Last month, volunteers and local businesses welcomed residents and newcomers alike to celebrate our community at the council-run ‘Month of Sundays‘ street party.

A £2.2million grant from City Hall’s Good Growth Fund is also improving Angel Edmonton’s public spaces. The council’s innovative Fore Street Living Room Library was launched in July, providing a platform for residents to use – it is now the hub for investment to unlock the potential of Fore Street’s economy. I encourage all residents to search ‘Fore Street For All’ online to find out more about upcoming local events and how you can get involved!

As promised on the doorstep during my election campaign, I will continue to advocate on behalf of Upper Edmonton for cleaner, greener and safer streets.

Thomas Fawns is a councillor for Upper Edmonton, alongside Margaret Greer and Doris Jiagge (all Labour). If you are a ward resident you can get in touch:
Call 020 8132 1238
Email [email protected]

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