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.
Violette Simpson is standing as an Reform candidate Wiltshire Council for Calne Central.
Violette told us she is standing as an Independent for the town council because local issues should not be about party politics. "I’m standing with Reform for the Wiltshire Council elections as at that level, aligning to and having the backing of a wider political group helps advocate, influence and drive change to get results for our area, allowing Calne Central to have a seat at the table where big decisions are made.
"As for town council, I am standing as an independent because local issues shouldn’t be about party politics – it’s about listening to locals, working collaboratively with the community and making decisions based on what is best for the town – without outside influences. That said, you are voting for me and the principles I stand for to build a strong healthy community that tackles real issues and a safer more prosperous future."
Speaking of her electoral campaign, Violette told us: "As a fellow Calne resident, I’m standing to bring our council back to what it should be—focused, efficient, and working for the Customer - You."
With over 12 years of experience delivering major government and engineering transformation projects, Violette has the expertise to drive practical, common-sense solutions. Her vision for Calne is one where families thrive, neighbours support each other, and a strong sense of identity and legacy unite the community.
Violette believes in empowering residents to take ownership of their surroundings, fostering growth, resilience, and responsibility from the ground up.
Her campaign focuses on three key priorities:
- A War on Waste - Violette aims to cut bureaucracy and waste in Wiltshire Council's £500 million budget, ensuring that residents' money is used efficiently to fund essential services.
- Revitalising Our Town Centre - Violette wants to support local businesses, reduce business rates, repurpose vacant buildings, and encourage entrepreneurship to bring energy and opportunity back into Calne's town centre.
- Investing in Infrastructure - From safer roads, fixing potholes and reliable connectivity to protecting our green spaces. Violette says: "I’ll fight for practical investments that serve families, improve daily life, and preserve the rural character we love."
She added: "Outside of work, you’ll often find me hiking Wiltshire’s countryside, wild swimming with friends, or exploring our country’s deep heritage and the craftsmanship of classical architecture.
"I’m a regular at Calne Free Church, where my Christian faith anchors the values I bring to public life: truth, justice, humility, and unity."
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