Long-standing and much-loved Independent Moorview Councillor Maddi Bridgeman has urged Plymouth voters to consider supporting a directly elected mayor (DEM), arguing that the city needs fresh leadership after years of political stalemate and mounting debt.
Speaking candidly about the proposed changes to Plymouth's governance structure, Councillor Bridgeman expressed strong support for Plymothians choosing their own leader through a directly elected mayor system, stating that voters should "go with their hearts and not by the colour of the rosette worn on a person's chest."
"Let's state fact; it can't be any worse than the last couple of years we have had in Plymouth, especially under Bingley's Conservatives and the tree debacle that cost the city millions of pounds," Cllr Bridgeman said, referencing the controversial tree-felling programme that sparked public outcry and significant financial costs.
The veteran councillor, who has served for eleven years under different party banners before becoming an Independent, highlighted key issues facing the city, including the unresolved Plymouth Airport situation.
Despite campaigning to save the airport, Cllr Bridgeman noted that "no leader in the past 10 years has been capable of regaining the lease," suggesting that a directly elected mayor might finally resolve this issue rather than commissioning "another viability report at the cost of the taxpayer."
With Plymouth facing close to a billion pounds of debt, Cllr Bridgeman questioned whether a DEM could "sprinkle a little common sense" into the city's financial management.
Reflecting on her political journey, Cllr Bridgeman revealed she has previously served as a councillor for UKIP and the Conservatives but found her true effectiveness as an Independent. "I have freedom of speech, and do not have a party whip to quash my beliefs and tell me how to vote. I vote exactly how my residents want me to vote and with their best interests in mind," she explained.
Cllr Bridgeman distanced herself from traditional politicians, describing herself as "someone who tries to help others and voice their concerns in a political forum." She predicted that neither Labour nor Conservative candidates would likely win a DEM election, suggesting this explains why "both parties are fervently against the idea."
"Plymouth needs someone who has the heart of the city truly in theirs, and will stand for the people and not tow their party's line," she argued, while acknowledging the challenges such a person would face. "That person would need to be incredibly strong as politics can be a vicious and vile platform; I have learnt that the hard way."
Despite describing the role as "a completely thankless task at times," Cllr Bridgeman expressed pride in her practical achievements for Moorview ward. "When I drive around my Ward, I can point out every pot hole I have had repaired, every double yellow line, every tree I have planted, bench or bin I have installed, etc. etc. and that does make me truly proud."
The councillor concluded with a hopeful message: "I am crossing my fingers and toes for change; hopefully the residents of Plymouth will deliver, and take a chance on their future."
Cllr Bridgeman's comments add an independent voice to the ongoing debate about Plymouth's governance structure, as the city considers whether to adopt a directly elected mayor system in place of the current council leader model.
Plymouth Plus has contacted all current Independent Plymouth councillors for their views on the mayoral referendum. Responses received will be published in due course.
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