Meet the candidates: Warwick North

By James Smith 24th Apr 2025

From left - David Norris (Reform), Simon Pargeter (Labour) and Laurence Byrne (Liberal Democrats)
From left - David Norris (Reform), Simon Pargeter (Labour) and Laurence Byrne (Liberal Democrats)

In just over a week Warwick locals will head to the polls to vote in their new councillors for Warwickshire County Council.

All 57 wards at the local authority are up for grabs, with voting opening on Thursday 1 May.

Results will then be announced on Friday 2 May, including in all three Kenilworth wards.

We have asked each candidate why locals should trust them with their vote.

This is what the candidates for Warwick North said:

Laurence Byrne - Liberal Democrats

A dedicated community champion, Laurence is deeply committed to Warwick, where he has lived for many years and his children are educated in local schools.  

Laurence brings invaluable experience as a chartered accountant, promising to apply his financial expertise to ensure responsible and effective management of the council's resources, particularly during these challenging economic times. 

As a Warwick resident, he will prioritise the needs of his community and serve as a strong and reliable advocate for all residents. 

Laurence Byrne - Liberal Democrats

Oliver Jacques - Conservative

I am very proud to have served in Warwick North as a town councillor for six years and a district councillor from 2019 to 2023. 

It was also an enormous privilege to be Warwick Mayor in 2023/24. 

I have lived in this constituency for over 20 years and am passionate about supporting local residents and businesses, and solving problems whether large or small. 

I want to bring my experience, and desire to act on behalf of residents, to the role of county councillor, to make the whole of Warwick North an even healthier and happier place to live and work.

Oliver Jacques - Conservative

Sam Jones - Green

Since you elected me to district council earlier this year, I've already uncovered that £116k meant for road improvements was unspent by your current county councillor when I received a response to a FOI request in February. 

I'll fight to get that funding back for our streets and paths.

 As a qualified tax accountant, I know how to stretch budgets. 

As part of the joint administration at Warwick District Council, we're saving £2.5m through efficiencies whilst improving public services you depend on like the new expanded recycling scheme. 

The Tory-run county council's budget is in crisis, but local Greens have the track record of financial responsibility. 

Sam Jones - Green

David Norris - Reform

David Norris, a local businessman and former Bishop's Tachbrook district councillor, portfolio holder, and parliamentary candidate, has extensive experience delivering infrastructure projects for government bodies, saving millions. 

Passionate about housing, sustainability, and policy, he has tackled homelessness, fly-tipping, and anti-social behaviour, designing a fully funded net-zero plan achievable in 18 months. 

Norris challenged ineffective governance, secured funding for local improvements, and supported services during the pandemic, including the London Free Hospital's readiness programme. 

If elected, he will collaborate with others to enhance the community. 

David Norris - Reform

Simon Pargeter - Labour

I'm Warwick born and bred, and my passion for our community led me into politics. 

During Covid-19, I supported my neighbours by collecting food for the food pantry and campaigned for the Priory Pools Community Centre. 

I've worked in retail, manufacturing and health and gained degrees in psychology and leadership & management. 

I currently support people with mental health challenges. 

Since becoming a candidate, I've been focusing on your concerns: parking, antisocial behaviour, better opportunities,  your children and supporting our local businesses. 

My deep roots in the local area and proven commitment to our community set me apart - I will always put residents first and work hard for you. 

Simon Pargeter - Labour

     

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