A recent local survey, conducted by Sean Houlston, Conservative Parliamentary Candidate for Runcorn and Helsby, has revealed overwhelming community opposition to Labour’s decision to scrap Winter Fuel Payments and weaken protections for green spaces.
The results also shine a light on local frustrations with council services and housing development priorities.
Key Findings from the Survey:
- Green Spaces Must Be Protected: An overwhelming 99% of residents said the Green Belt should either never be built on or should only be built on in limited circumstances – a clear signal that Labour is out of touch with local priorities.
- Labour’s Winter Fuel Cut is Deeply Unpopular: 72% of respondents said it is unfair for the Labour Government to scrap Winter Fuel Payments for 10 million pensioners.
- Public Demands More from Development: When asked what they would prioritise in new developments, the clear majority (60%) chose contributions to local services and facilities.
- Mixed Feelings on Council Performance: When rating local council services on a scale of 0–10, the most common score was 5, chosen by nearly a quarter of respondents (24%). The data shows a need for significant improvement and better value for taxpayers.
- Most Believe Housing Supply is Sufficient: 69% of residents said the current supply of housing is “about right”, countering claims that more development is urgently needed.
Sean Houlston, Conservative candidate for Runcorn and Helsby, said:
“These results reflect what I’ve been hearing on the doorstep for weeks – residents are not being listened to. Labour’s approach to green spaces is reckless, and their decision to cut Winter Fuel Payments is nothing short of shameful.
“As your Conservative candidate, I will fight to protect our green spaces, back rural life, support our pensioners, and make sure development brings real benefits to local people. Our community deserves better – and I’m here to deliver it.”
