ACTIVISTS have published a draft manifesto as they prepare to challenge the three main parties at the next local election.

Residents disillusioned with elected representatives have outlined their priorities and are now inviting nominations for independent candidates.

Following several meetings over the last few months, the group has agreed the main issues are the future of the former EMD cinema, the St James Street Library closure, the empty Arcade site, all in Walthamstow, and the re-opening Walthamstow Stadium in Chingford.

The manifesto also pledges to improve services, carry out a full audit of council expenditure following the council contracts fiasco and more transparency in decision-making.

Caramel Quin, a member of the Fight the Height group, which campaigned against a high-rise development on the Arcade site, supports the manifesto.

She said: “The manifesto is sensible, with issues people agree on, so I'm really pleased.

“We have a council with a cabinet system, so the power lies with a handful of councillors.

“It is frustrating, but even getting one or two independents would be a way of holding the council to account and would put a rocket up the political parties.”

The group hope to exploit what they see as widespread disillusionment with the three main political parties.

Some residents questioned by the Guardian voiced support for the move.

Monica Baker, 82, of Lancaster Road, in Leytonstone, said: “I think it is good what they are doing. I would do just about anything that might bring about positive change.

“I feel disillusioned, despondent, upset and worried about politics at the moment.”

But others expressed doubts that the independent councillors could make a difference.

Ejaz Ahmed, 47, owner of Monarchs Sports in Leytonstone High Road, said: “I am not happy with any of the current parties. The individual councillors cannot do anything because it is always about party politics.

“An independent councillor wouldn't be able to make any changes. Nobody can do anything unless the council changes its bureaucratic system.”

Agnes Wallis, 79, of Hainault Road in Leytonstone, said: “It will be very difficult for the independent councillors to be heard. I don't think it will work because the other parties are too big really.”

On Wednesday, the group is expected to finalise the manifesto, choose candidates and recruit volunteers to help run an election campaign.

The meeting is on Wednesday, February 3, at the Ye Old Rose and Crown, in Hoe Street, Walthamstow.

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