Transport concerns and the Wimbledon tennis expansion dominated a lively hustings event in Wimbledon just days before voters head to the polls on May 7. Residents repeatedly pressed candidates on traffic, public transport, and road safety during the Wimblecomm event held at the Citizen Hub on April 29.
Key Issues Raised at the Hustings
Merton residents will decide on Thursday whether to return the current Labour administration, which has held majority control since 2014, or choose a different path. On stage were representatives from all five major parties: Labour council leader Ross Garrod, Liberal Democrat opposition leader Anthony Fairclough, Conservative councillor Daniel Holden, Green candidate Pippa Maslin, and Reform UK's Ed Gretton.
Transport Concerns
Facilitator Louise Hanson noted that transport emerged as the most frequently raised issue, particularly congestion, safety, and east-west inequality. Fairclough blamed road layouts, saying town centres are based on traffic gyratories, and highlighted poor public transport in the east of the borough. Garrod acknowledged uneven access and an over-reliance on trains and buses, pointing to improved zebra crossings and e-bike schemes. Gretton proposed a segregated cycle lane from Wimbledon to Mitcham and Morden. Holden focused on EV charging points and pavement accessibility, while Maslin argued for fairer space allocation and noted that electric vehicles are not a panacea.
Wimbledon Tennis Expansion
The second most requested topic was the controversial Wimbledon Park expansion, with Save Wimbledon Park supporters present. Garrod, whose Labour administration approved the plans in 2023, said the council respects the planning process and that the scheme is now subject to appeal. The other four parties opposed the plans directly. Fairclough said the council should enforce covenants. Gretton and Holden called the plans excessive, while Maslin warned they would set a dangerous precedent for building on protected land.
Other Key Points
Other issues included the closure of front desk counters at Wimbledon and Mitcham police stations. Garrod said the council plans to co-locate staff to support residents. On climate policy, Holden called for planning reform to allow solar panels in conservation areas, while Maslin opposed glyphosate pesticides. The panel also discussed support for local businesses and the long-delayed Morden regeneration project.
A full list of Merton local election ward candidates is available separately.
