Reading’s newest councillor has laid out her priorities following her by-election win.
Finn McGoldrick was elected in Norcot following the poll on Thursday, August 3, triggered following the death of Cllr Colette Dennis in June.
The newly-elected Labour councillor paid tribute to her predecessor, and spoke about the issues raised during the campaign.
“It [the by-election] came from tragic circumstances, it’s a campaign we have never had to do as a local party,” she said.
“Colette was really loved, it was clear how much she was loved in Norcot and her contributions to the area.
“The campaign was focused on bread-and-butter issues such as road resurfacing and street cleanliness.
“Lots of people are really pleased with the Dee Space community centre, they are looking forward to more action on the regeneration and getting current empty buildings down and replaced.”
This opened earlier this year as part of the estate’s regeneration.
Cllr McGoldrick continued: “There was a lot of concern about anti-social behaviour, everyone is concerned about that, it is something we are really mindful of.
“I’ll work with the council to make sure Norcot is kept clean, safe and vibrant, so that the area looks and feels nice to live in.
“I also want to promote more youth and family activities in the ward, so people can take advantage of Dee Space and Prospect Park.
“I’ll work to make sure the council steps up to provide more free events for families.”
These have included Reading WaterFest and the Children’s Festival.
Cllr McGoldrick added: “There’s a real positivity around how well run the council is. There are always things to do better, we want to get the basics right.
“Residents want to be listened to and have reports back, that’s what I intend to do.”
She has not been appointed to any committees yet, with her stating that her focus will be on representing the ward.
Away from politics, she is married and has two children, and is delighted to be a resident.
“I’m really pleased that we’ve found a lovely, friendly area for all kinds of families,” she said. “Reading is a diverse, inclusive and safe town, I think that’s brilliant, our diversity is a big part of our strength.”
Cllr McGoldrick comes from Belfast, and will continue to work as a Political Advisor to Jonathan Reynolds, the Shadow Secretary of State for Business and Industrial Strategy and Labour MP for Stalybridge and Hyde.
