Trevor Young, Liberal Democrat and current Lincolnshire County Councillor, has thrown his hat into the ring for the forthcoming Greater Lincolnshire mayoral election. Young, who also heads the West Lindsey District Council, is one of six hopefuls vying to become the first mayor of the area, following last year’s devolution deal.
The elected mayor will helm the newly formed Greater Lincolnshire Combined County Authority, overseeing a £24 million annual investment fund and holding sway over economic development, skills, transport, and planning. Young believes his experience in collaborative work and challenging the government, particularly regarding the RAF Scampton issue, makes him a fitting candidate.
According to Young, the Liberal Democrats’ recent successes and community-focused approach have strengthened the party’s position. He also noted the party’s fielding 67 candidates for the simultaneous Lincolnshire County Council elections.
Young led the West Lindsey District Council through an 18-month legal battle against the former Conservative government’s plan to house asylum seekers at the former RAF Scampton airbase. He maintains that this experience has prepared him to fight for important local issues.
The future of Scunthorpe steelworks, threatened with closure and job losses, is another key concern Young believes the incoming mayor will need to prioritise. He highlighted his election promises to support small businesses, ensure education and opportunities for young people, and foster pride in Greater Lincolnshire.
Young stated that should he win the mayoral election, he would step down from his current roles. In a rallying cry to voters, Young urged residents to vote for the Liberal Democrats in both the mayoral and county elections on 1st May.
This story was adapted by The Lincoln Post from original reporting by www.grimsbytelegraph.co.uk.
