Greens announce their candidate for Petersfield by-election
A candidate is hoping to double the number of Green councillors on the city council at up-coming by-elections, saying fast growth and inequality are among the biggest problems in the city.
Virgil Ierubino has been announced as the Green party’s candidate for the upcoming by-election in Petersfield ward. The election, which will take place on September 13, was called after then councillor Ann Sinnott resigned her seat in protest over the city council’s policy to allow self-identifying transgender women to use women’s toilets and facilities in the city.
Mr Ierubino, who stood against Ms Sinnott in previous city council elections in May, said pressure on housing, services, and transport was being “caused by chasing fast economic growth that benefits only a minority – few of whom are Petersfield residents”.
Mr Ierubino said the Greens could win in Petersfield. A victory here would make him the city’s second Green councillor alongside Market ward’s Oscar Gillespie.
“There is a lot of support for Green policies,” he said.
“But let’s not forget the first-past-the-post system works against us. Despite this, we will fight and contest every election.
“Every Green vote adds to the demand for fairness and sustainability in our area, and builds our foundation for winning more council seats, with which to achieve these goals even sooner.”
Speaking about forthcoming developments in Mill Road depot, and potential plans to further develop the CB1 district by the railway station, Mr Ierubino said developers must be “fair” in providing green spaces for local people.
“Sustainability and fairness to all residents must be non-negotiable terms in all these developments, not an afterthought,” hes aid.
“Development must proceed at a more considered pace, guarantee green spaces, and not be driven by turning a fast profit.”
Last week, Labour announced their candidate for the Petersfield seat would be Kelley Green, while the Lib Dems have put forward former Petersfield councillor Sarah Brown.
The Conservative candidate for the seat is Othman Cole, a lecturer at the city’s Judge Business School.
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