Town council duo vow: ‘We won’t be gagged by red tape’

Councillors Alan Lockwood and Richard Barker have dismayed a number of their colleagues by directly contacting the media and other organisations in recent weeks.

Coun Lockwood has, for example, emailed Lincolnshire Police about anti social behaviour.

He also spoke to the News about plans to ‘open up’ the Market Place to boost businesses.

Coun Barker has raised a number of highways issues directly with officers at Lincolnshire County Council.

He is also dealing with the Environment Agency regarding flooding issues, caused by the River Waring.

In correspondence, they both ‘sign’ their emails as town councillors.

The News understands that is a breach of the council’s communications policy, which the pair have been asked to adhere to.

They have also been told requests to speak to the media must by cleared by the town clerk.

In interviews - and in communications with organisations - councillors must stress they are speaking personally and not on behalf of the council.

Coun Lockwood told the News: “I will not be told who I can speak to.

“I was elected by residents of the town and I will continue to represent them in any way I can.”

In regard to the anti-social behaviour, Coun Lockwood said he had been asked by residents to ‘get involved’ - because of a lack of action by police and other authorities.

Coun Barker said he would continue to use his ‘professional expertise and experience’ to represent the best interests of the town.

He said: “I know the regulations but I was elected by residents to add value to the town and I am not going to be told that I have to ask permission for everything I do.

“I can only praise the work done by some councillors and staff members.

“However, I believe the council is perceived by many people to talk a lot but do very little - and what is done takes an inordinate amount of time.

“My approach is ‘find a way - not an excuse.’

“That might not sit well with some colleagues but so be it.

“I won’t be silenced by rules and regulations. We are living in the 21st century.”

Coun Barker outlined a number of key issues he was helping residents with - including the Waring flooding.

He added: “Some businesses and residents have been flooded two or three times but little has been done.

“They approached me and I agreed to speak to the Environment Agency, and progress is being made.

“There won’t be millions of pounds to spend on new defences, but hopefully something will be done.

“The council had several opportunities to do something positive but failed to act. It’s the same with a lot of long-standing issues, like highways. It’s 
not good enough.”