22nd December 2025
With local elections approaching in May, a series of questions have been raised by Romiley residents concerning the record of Liberal Democrat councillor Angela Clark, who has confirmed she is standing for re-election.
At council area committee meetings, residents and campaigners have drawn attention to several issues relating to spending decisions, environmental protection, and councillor conduct. These matters, raised on the public record, have prompted calls for greater transparency and accountability.
One concern centres on a council project that critics say cost in the region of £100,000, which they argue could have been achieved through a far less costly alternative. Residents have questioned the necessity and proportionality of the expenditure, particularly at a time when council budgets remain under pressure. Supporters of this view say a solution costing a few hundred pounds would have met the same functional requirements.
Separately, during a recorded council area committee meeting, Councillor Clark was asked about an alleged financial irregularity involving figures of approximately £6 million. When the matter was raised publicly, Councillor Clark responded with “No comment.” The exchange is visible on publicly available video footage of the meeting.
Environmental issues have also featured prominently. Campaigners state that a woodland classified as W1 protected has been subject to destruction over a period of approximately 16 months. They argue that insufficient action was taken to prevent or halt the damage, despite the site’s protected status. The council has not published a detailed public explanation addressing responsibility or decision-making in relation to the site.
In addition, residents have expressed concern about Councillor Clark’s conduct during discussions involving the late Mr Parnell, a local resident whose case had attracted public sympathy. Campaigners allege that her reaction at the mention of his name appeared dismissive.
Councillor Clark was approached for comment on all of the above issues. Referring to the matters during the public meeting, she stated “No comment” and did not offer further clarification when contacted subsequently.
As the May election draws closer, residents on all sides say they want clearer answers about spending priorities, environmental stewardship, and standards of conduct. Whether these questions will influence voters remains to be seen, but they are now firmly part of the local political conversation.
