Bridges

Activist Jonathan Aibi (Yoni)

Email: hello@gatesheadlibdems.org.uk

Jonathan (Yoni) – Standing Up for Bridges Ward

I’m passionate about the Bridges Ward, honestly it deserves better – better representation, better value for money, and a better future!

I believe in democracy that works for residents, value for the taxpayer, and proper representation for every part of our ward. For too long, we’ve been let down – including by one of our former Labour councillors, now an independent, who hasn’t shown up to work since being elected. That’s simply not good enough. If you choose me, I’ll be there, present and accountable, from day one.

Bridges Ward has a proud history, and I want to see it thrive again. That means:

• Investment and regeneration to breathe life back into our high streets, public spaces, and housing, restoring the sense of pride and vibrancy we once had.
• Championing our youth and youth services, so young people have safe places to meet, activities to take part in, and real opportunities to succeed.
• Protecting and growing spaces for socialising – from community venues to cafés, independent shops, and cultural events – because strong communities need places where people can connect.
• Backing local businesses to strengthen our economy, create jobs, and make our ward a place people want to visit.
• Delivering practical improvements – cleaner streets, better lighting, safer public spaces, and reliable local services.

I’m someone who will work hard, listen to you, and make sure decisions are made with the people of Bridges Ward, not for them without their say. Together, we can bring our community back to its heyday and build a future we can all be proud of.

Activist Luisa Scott

Email: hello@gatesheadlibdems.org.uk

I was born and bred in Gateshead, and I’m standing as a Liberal Democrat candidate for Bridges Ward because I care deeply about the future of our town centre and our community.

I’m a registered nurse with a long career in healthcare, and for the past two years I’ve been based on Gateshead High Street as a local business owner. Alongside my partner, I co-run The Tynesider, investing in a safe, welcoming space that brings people together across generations.

My focus is clear: tackling crime and anti-social behaviour, strengthening community safety, and restoring pride in Gateshead town centre.

I helped set up a volunteer-led town centre group and active community network that works with residents, businesses and police to address issues such as litter, graffiti and anti-social behaviour. This is community politics in action — local people working together to deliver practical change.

I’m also passionate about supporting older residents. Through partnership work with Age UK Gateshead and our Boomers daytime events, we’ve created regular social activities that reduce isolation and bring friendship and connection back into people’s lives.

I joined the Liberal Democrats because I believe in open, honest and transparent local politics. Residents deserve clear communication, accountability and councillors who are visible and accessible.

If elected, I will:

• Prioritise practical action on crime and anti-social behaviour in Bridges Ward
• Strengthen cooperation between residents, police, businesses and the council
• Support responsible High Street regeneration
• Champion activities that improve wellbeing and reduce isolation
• Deliver open, accountable representation

I didn’t wait to be elected to start improving our area, I got involved. I’m not standing to start helping. I’m standing to do more.

Activist Liam Bowering

Email: hello@gatesheadlibdems.org.uk

I believe Gateshead deserves more ambition, more fairness, and better value for residents. Too often, people feel like they’re paying more in council tax but seeing less in return. I’m determined to make sure every pound we raise locally is spent wisely and delivers real improvements, not waste.

I want Gateshead to be a place where business and enterprise can thrive. By backing local entrepreneurs and small businesses, we can create more jobs and opportunities across the borough.

I am also committed to investing in people and communities. That means more youth and community hubs that provide safe, positive spaces for young people and families. It also means building more social housing and improving the quality of the homes we already have — including giving tenants more freedom to make simple repairs themselves.

A cleaner, safer Gateshead matters to me. I will work for closer partnerships between the council, the police, and local groups to tackle graffiti, crime, and anti-social behaviour so that our streets feel safe and welcoming again.

I am standing up for a Gateshead where people’s money is respected, businesses can flourish, and communities feel valued.