My Vision for Newport & Islwyn
A bold plan to strengthen our communities, protect our public services, and build a greener, fairer future for everyone.
As your Senedd Member, I will fight every day to make sure Newport & Islwyn gets its fair share of resources and attention. My vision is built around the real priorities I've heard from thousands of conversations with local residents.
I believe in practical solutions that make a real difference to people's lives - creating good jobs, improving our public services, and building stronger, greener communities. These aren't just promises; they're commitments I will deliver on.
My Pledge to You
I will be a strong, accessible voice for our community. I'll hold regular surgeries across the constituency, publish regular updates on my work, and always put the interests of Newport & Islwyn residents first in every decision I make.
My Policy Priorities
Community Investment
Our high streets and community spaces are the heart of Newport & Islwyn. I will fight for investment to revitalise them and make them places where businesses can thrive and communities can gather.
- Establish a Local Business Growth Fund to support entrepreneurs and small businesses
- Create community hubs in every town and village, providing access to services and meeting spaces
- Improve public transport connections between our towns and villages
- Fight for infrastructure investments to tackle traffic congestion and improve connectivity
Healthcare & Schools
Quality healthcare and education are the foundation of a fair society. I will stand up for our NHS and schools, ensuring everyone has access to the services they need.
- Campaign for increased funding for local GP services and reduced waiting times
- Support the development of integrated health and social care services
- Fight for better mental health services, especially for young people
- Secure additional funding for schools to reduce class sizes and improve facilities
Green Economy
The climate crisis demands urgent action, but it also presents an opportunity to create good jobs and build a more sustainable future for Newport & Islwyn.
- Develop a Green Jobs Fund to support the creation of new jobs in clean industries
- Campaign for a major home insulation program to reduce energy bills and cut carbon emissions
- Support local renewable energy projects and community ownership schemes
- Protect and enhance our natural environment, with more tree planting and green spaces
Housing & Planning
Everyone deserves a safe, affordable place to call home. I will work to increase the supply of quality housing while protecting our green spaces.
- Support the building of thousands of new affordable homes across Newport & Islwyn
- Campaign for stronger regulations to improve standards in the private rental sector
- Support community-led housing initiatives and co-operative housing models
- Ensure homes are available for all our residents and young people looking to get on the housing ladder and to get on in life.
Community Voices
"As someone who looks after policy for our CLP, I'm impressed by Chris's plans for local economic growth. His experience on the National Policy Forum is exactly what we need to deliver a winning manifesto and campaign."
"Chris understands the challenges facing our public services and has clear plans to improve healthcare access in our area. I believe he will be a strong advocate for patients and staff alike."
Your Questions Answered
How will you fund these proposals?
My proposals will be funded through a combination of existing Welsh Government budgets, UK Government funding, and by working with local authorities to maximise the impact of available resources to drive town centre renewal and new, well-paid jobs. I will also campaign for a fairer funding settlement for Wales that recognises the specific needs of our communities.
Where do you stand on the future of steel in Wales?
My stance is rooted in my deep connection to steel here in Newport & Islwyn as the son and grandson of steelworkers, as well as my 16 years of Labour activism. I understand the frustration in our community and I am a strong advocate for steel nationalisation, having led a motion through our CLP and onto debate at national conference to nationalise the British and Welsh steel industry. As a candidate I am not just making promises, but already working to deliver for our steel industry here in Wales for our workers and the long term future of their vital jobs.
What is your stance on recent welfare cuts?
I am proud to represent Labour values and I believe in working constructively with our UK counterparts. Through my role on the National Policy Forum representing Labour members in Wales I have held the Secretary of State for the Department of Work and Pensions, Liz Kendall, to account on the impact of these cuts.
The people of Newport & Islwyn expect their needs to be put front and centre by their representatives, and that's exactly what I'll continue to do.
Ready to Support This Vision?
Together, we can build a brighter future for Newport & Islwyn. Join our campaign and help make this vision a reality.