Hull and East Yorkshire mayoral election: Rowan Halstead
Rowan HalsteadOn 1 May voters in Hull and East Yorkshire will decide the first elected mayor of the new combined authority. You can find more information about the election and the candidates here.
Rowan Halstead, 28, is co-leader of the Yorkshire Party and has lived in East Yorkshire all his life
Mr Halstead, who is the Yorkshire Party candidate said: "This region raised me and I am choosing it to be the place I raise my family." He added: "There is so much untapped potential here and I want to help the people of Hull and East Yorkshire achieve what we are owed."
He says he would prevent Council Tax increases
Mr Halstead has pledged to ensure residents do not incur the recent 5% council tax increase again.
"Promoting responsible financial management with smaller, more manageable rises each year, ensuring fairness for all."
He wants to create job opportunities and remove barriers for those who want to upskill
He wants to establish a local apprenticeship scheme, partnering with businesses and educational institutions to create job opportunities for all.
"Fostering a cohesive, integrated strategy for workforce development. Furthermore I would want to provide free public transport to anyone completing training or up to a level 4 qualification."
Mr Halstead said he would ensure transport projects benefit the area
He says he will review transport spending to ensure it benefits everyone.
"I will carefully investigate current transport projects to ensure they benefit all demographics, from young people to retirees, and ensure resources are effectively allocated to meet the needs of our community.
He wants to invest in working neighbourhoods
"I will prioritise the development of neighbourhoods that support both work and family life, ensuring easy access to affordable housing, job opportunities, and community-centric living, tailored to the needs of the local workforce."
He has pledged to ensure public spending is transparent
Mr Halstead says he is committed to ensuring public finances are transparent.
"I will champion open transparency in how public finances are managed, ensuring residents know exactly where their taxes are going, with opportunities for scrutiny and accountability at every level."