On Thursday, 1st May 2025, elections will take place for 98 Unitary Wiltshire Councillors and across the Parish and Town Councils in Wiltshire. We take a closer look at the candidates who will be vying for your votes in Calne.
Meet Augusta Urquhart-Nicholls, the Reform UK candidate for Chilvester and Abberd on Wiltshire Council.
Augusta, 28, Chair of Reform UK's local branch is determined to bring about positive change in Calne.
Having lived in the North Wiltshire area for six years and buying her first home in Calne two years ago, Augusta told us she has been 'taken aback at how our town is being left behind'. She believes residents deserve better—and says she is determined to deliver real, practical solutions.
Augusta's key priorities for Calne include tackling wasteful spending, regenerating the town centre, and promoting sensible development.
“I love this town, and I know it has so much potential,” says Augusta. “But too often the voices of thecommunity are ignored while wasteful spending and poor planning take precedence.
“Anyone that knows me knows I am not content to sit on my laurels and let opportunities pass me by. I want to cut through the sluggish bureaucracy of local government and get things done.”
Augusta’s key priorities for Calne include:
A War on Waste – "Wiltshire Council’s £500m budget must work harder for residents. I will push for smarter spending and greater accountability, so that every penny Wiltshire Council spends is of value to all."
Town Centre Regeneration – "Vacant buildings and declining footfall are holding Calne back. I will advocate for repurposing empty spaces, encouraging small businesses with pro-business incentives, and launching beautification schemes to breathe new life into the high street. Our community needs a vibrant hub where residents can connect with one another, and I'm committed to making that a reality."
Sensible Development – "Calne’s growing population needs infrastructure that keeps pace. I will say no to any further development in Calne until this is addressed. I will fight for better planning that prioritises local needs over top-down political agendas."
Augusta also emphasised the importance of listening to residents and engaging with the community through regular polls and surveys.
"I’m here to take responsibility, to get things done, and to bring common sense back to local politics. Let’s put Calne back on the map.”
Residents can contact
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