LOCAL ELECTIONS: ‘Great day for Conservatives in Peterborough’

Wayne Fitzgerald said the electorate had “rejected the opposition’s flawed thinking, plans and ideology” after the Tories increased their number of city councillors from 28 to 29, despite defending the vast majority of seats.

And although the Conservatives are two shy of a majority, it is likely they will continue their 22 years stint in power with the support of the three Werrington First councillors.

Cllr Fitzgerald, the council’s deputy leader, said: “It’s been a great result for the Conservatives in Peterborough. We’re one up and the electorate rejected the opposition’s flawed thinking, plans and ideology.

“It’s down to hard work from a dedicated team of activists and campaigners and about convincing people on the doorstep that we’re doing what’s right for them.

“Offering free bulky waste collections was a big thing I introduced a few weeks ago to clean up the city, and a clampdown on antisocial behaviour.

“We’ve also had 21 years of unprecedented growth which has seen us in the top five cities for growth.

“It’s been a good day for the Conservatives.”

Cllr Fitzgerald will stand to be Conservative group leader and replace current council leader Cllr John Holdich who is stepping down from the local authority.

The member for West ward added: “I will be putting myself forward to be group leader. I hope to convince them I’m the right person to take us forward.

“John Holdich has been the glue that has held our group together and steered the ship in his tenure. It’s a shame he won’t be here any longer.

“He’s been a great ambassador for the city, his family has long connections here, and people will really miss him.

“He will be around I’m sure contributing in private life, if not in public life.”

Cllr Fitzgerald also revealed he will invite new Dogsthorpe councillor Ishfaq Hussain to join the Conservative group if he is elected as leader.

Cllr Hussain has apologised for alleged antisemitic Facebook posts and is believed to have been suspended by the party.

Cllr Fitzgerald, who said he could not comment on the posts as he had not seen them, added: “He is elected and I will invite him to join to the group if I am leader.”

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