“We work for residents - not a political party” says Independent candidate ahead of Milton Keynes elections

Cllr Tony Coughlan, Cllr Jane Whild and Dr Leigh-Anne Perryman are standing as Independent candidates in Woughton and Fishermead, offering what they describe as a clear alternative - councillors accountable to residents, not national parties.

Their campaign reflects a wider shift. Across the UK, the 2025 local elections saw support for the main parties weaken, with independents and smaller groups gaining ground as voter loyalties changed.

This trend also came closer to home. In Buckinghamshire, a record number of Independent candidates stood for election last year. The IMPACT Alliance, made up largely of independents, secured 19 seats – including 13 Independents – becoming the third largest group on Buckinghamshire Council.

Independent councillors now have representation in 92% of councils in UK local government. The three independent candidates in Woughton and Fishermead say that the rise is in response to voter expectations changing.

They argue that independent candidates can prioritise the needs of their community without having to follow party constraints.

Cllr Tony Coughlan said: “Being independent means we work for residents – not a political party. We can listen, act and deliver on what matters locally, without being tied to a party line.”

The Local Government Association described the recent rise of Independents and Green parties “as nothing short of breathtaking”.

In Woughton and Fishermead, the three Independents - Tony, Jane and Leigh-Anne - say their approach is already delivering tangible improvements by working directly with residents.

Their work has included repairing street lighting, making routes safer and more accessible by fixing underpass lighting, supporting disabled redway users and acting quickly on everyday local concerns.

They say these results show what can be achieved when councillors focus entirely on their community.