Chris was elected as Councillor for the Perth City Centre Ward in 2017 and was reelected in 2022.
Chris writes: "As a local resident, I live with my family in North Muirton. My children grew up in North Muirton and have all been to the local schools. I am delighted to have been elected for this ward. Perth is a very fair city, but we are still a long way from recognising our full potential.
"Like the rest of you I live with the frustrations at the poor state of local roads - and not just in the city centre, but across the whole of Perth & Kinross, the lack of shops in the city centre, the constant battle with parking on side streets, and the problems of having to navigate around dog mess on our pavements. I am also increasingly exasperated by the amount of fly-tipping by inconsiderate residents who have no thought for the environment and communities in which they live.
As a veteran of the Royal Air Force and having served at home and in Germany I was delighted to become the Armed Forces and Veterans Champion for Perth and Kinross. I have made the issues of veterans and awareness of veterans a priority. I have also recently, along with the Perth Veterans Association, secured the erection of a new War memorial, something that veterans and families In Perth & Kinross have been asking for, for a long time.
As Convenor of the Licensing Committee I am making sure that taxi drivers and companies maintain the standards that are expected of them, especially as they are often the first people tourists meet when they visit Perth. First impressions count.
As the ward councillor for Perth city centre I have received lots of emails etc. covering a broad range of issues, from housing problems to environment issues, from financial issues to mental health issues. Along with my experience as a director of a mental health charity I been able to get help for individuals and families to help cope with their mental health.
Having recently become vice Convenor of the Housing and Communities committee I am delighted to be able to be involved in ensuring that our residents, both tenants and private, are able to live in comfort and safety. As the chair of the Community Justice Partnership I have changed the way we have our meetings by inviting 3rd sector charities to give us the benefit of their experience in the Justice system. I am also ensuring that the excellent work of our community justice teams is recognised.
Perth harbour was struggling and since becoming the chair of the Harbour board I have been able to work with the board during the partnership with CalMac and have seen the fortunes of the harbour turn around, with more trade coming to the harbour giving way to local businesses benefiting from the increase in trade.
"I will continue to ensure that the council look after our education system and aim to ensure that there are sufficient teachers and better technology in our schools. I will also do all I can to ensure our public areas and parks are as attractive as possible to promote active, inclusive, recreation for all.
"My priorities for Perth City Centre
- Campaigning to ensure we attract more businesses to Perth. Focus on High Street and Bridgend to create thriving retail areas.
- Working to ensure that all children receive the best education. Ensuring our open spaces are well maintained to encourage active recreation.
- Minimising Council Tax burden on family budgets whilst delivering efficient services.
- Addressing parking and traffic problems across the city centre. Improving park and ride facilities and walking routes around the city.
- Tackling anti-social behaviour and speeding, especially in residential areas.
- Standing up to the SNP and opposing a second, divisive, independence referendum. "
Follow the links below to access recent news stories:
https://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/news/local-news/delight-perth-kinross-council-looks-18667989
https://www.pressreader.com/uk/perthshire-advertiser/20200228/281745566424723
https://www.phtm.co.uk/news/2580/phtm-news/tough-tests-for-taxi-drivers-hitting-home
https://twnews.co.uk/gb-news/perth-war-memorial-project-gets-major-cash-boost-from-council
https://theworldnews.net/gb-news/anger-as-idiots-are-spotted-congregating-at-perth-playpark
