The Conservative Party has announced its candidates for three West Reading wards ahead of the local elections on Thursday, May 7.
David Kenneth Milne Buckley will stand in Kentwood against incumbent Labour councillor Glenn Dennis, who was Reading’s mayor for 2024/25.
He said: “After speaking with many residents, it is clear our community feels taken for granted by the current Council. I want to focus on the basics that matter most — fixing potholes, reliable bin collections and safer streets. If elected, I will challenge wasteful spending and work to ensure every pound of Council Tax delivers real value locally.”
Raihana Rahimi is the Tory candidate for Tilehurst, taking on Liberal Democrat councillor Meri O'Connell, who has held the seat since 2016.
She said: “I am proud to be standing in Tilehurst, where I live and have raised my family.
“I am determined to protect the character of our area and ensure development is sustainable and appropriate.
“My priorities include tackling overdevelopment, addressing traffic and parking pressures, protecting green spaces, and ensuring the council delivers value for money while improving community safety.”
Femi Williams will contest Norcot, currently represented by Labour councillor Jo Lovelock.
He said: “Norcot has long been represented by Labour councillors, but many residents feel things have been allowed to decline — from the condition of alleyways to broken street lighting and local infrastructure. I want to stand up for residents’ everyday concerns and offer a real alternative. Democracy is about choice, and this election gives residents the opportunity to support a fresh voice focused on local issues.”
Conservative group leader on the council and Kentwood representative Cllr Raj Singh added: “We have taken the time to carefully select candidates who demonstrate real local commitment and understand the priorities of residents. Our team will not be afraid to hold the Labour-run Council to account. For too long, Reading has faced challenges including rising homelessness, housing pressures, anti-car policies, fly-tipping and potholes while Labour’s large majority has failed to deliver the improvements residents deserve.
“Both Labour MPs, Olivia Bailey for Reading West and Mid Berkshire and Matt Rodda for Reading Central, have shown a consistent willingness to look the other way when it comes to the failures of the Labour-run council, choosing party comrades over the people who elected them. Conservatives will stand up for common-sense local policies and ensure residents’ voices are heard.”
James Aldridge, Local Democracy Reporter
