Independent Candidate Submits 18,000 Reports to Croydon Council in a Year
Graham Mitchell, a Thornton Heath resident and independent candidate in the upcoming Croydon local elections, has made an extraordinary commitment to local activism by submitting over 18,000 reports to Croydon Council in a single year. Mitchell believes that the council requires independent voices like his own to provide essential quality control and ensure residents know where their money is being spent.
A Decade of Dedication to Local Issues
Mitchell, who is standing for the second time to represent the Bensham Manor ward, began his volunteer work over a decade ago with a Norbury Brook clean-up in 2015. He now chairs local friends groups, including Friends of Thornton Heath Recreation Ground, placing him at the forefront of addressing fly-tipping, maintenance problems, and environmental decline. During a recent visit to the recreation ground, evidence of illegal dumping, such as an abandoned motorbike, was visible, highlighting the ongoing challenges.
Holding the Council Accountable
Mitchell's 18,228 reports to the council cover a range of issues, from fly-tipping to contamination in the Norbury Brook, which he says is often plagued with waste like bed frames and dead foxes. While he acknowledges that the council and its waste contractor, Veolia, do respond to his reports, Mitchell criticizes the lack of transparency, particularly the delayed release of the redacted contract with Veolia. This contract, worth £40 million over eight years, outlines Veolia's responsibilities, including turnaround times for collecting fly-tips, but remains unpublished despite assurances.
Addressing Crime and Antisocial Behavior
Beyond environmental concerns, Mitchell identifies crime and antisocial behavior as key issues in the ward. He is a regular presence at Croydon Council Licensing Committee meetings, often acting as the sole objector to new premises licenses he believes could negatively impact the area. Mitchell points to instances where licensing conditions are breached, such as a premises selling alcohol from an open cabinet shortly after being granted a restricted license. He also criticizes the effectiveness of Public Space Protection Orders (PSPOs), citing the removal of seating near Thornton Heath Clock Tower as a measure that punishes all residents rather than targeting offenders.
Why Independence Matters
Mitchell argues that his independent status allows him to be more visible, approachable, and responsive to local needs. I'm visible, approachable, findable, he says, emphasizing that he lives in the ward and engages daily with the community. He believes that smaller parties and independents can provide crucial oversight on the council, supporting good ideas while questioning and improving proposals that fall short. In the 2022 elections, Mitchell received just over 500 votes, finishing fifth out of 13 candidates, but he feels the changing political climate may boost support for independents this time.
The Broader Election Context
Mitchell is one of only two independent candidates among 210 standing in Croydon's local elections. Other candidates for the Bensham Manor ward include representatives from the Labour and Co-operative Party, Liberal Democrats, Local Conservatives, Reform UK, the Green Party, and the Workers Party. Mitchell's campaign focuses on accountability, transparency, and direct community engagement, positioning him as a grassroots alternative to established political parties.
As the May 7 elections approach, Mitchell's record of activism and his call for greater council accountability resonate with residents seeking change in Croydon's local governance.
