Bloxwich residents are expressing confusion and frustration just one week before Walsall's all-out council elections, with most voters saying they do not know who to vote for.
Despite election forecasts predicting a Reform UK takeover at Walsall Council, locals on Bloxwich high street told the Local Democracy Reporting Service that no candidates have knocked on their doors in recent weeks.
Residents Voice Concerns
Pelsall resident Kevin Ellis, 66, summed up the mood: "It's a nightmare, I don't know who to vote for because they're all rubbish." He criticised Reform UK as "too extreme" while also questioning Conservative plans for green spaces amid a rising population.
Short Heath ward resident Nat Jones, 40, echoed concerns about candidate visibility, saying: "I don't know who any of my candidates are. They should have introduced themselves on Facebook or by door knocking."
Council Tax Hikes Under Fire
Council tax increases are a major concern for residents, with Anthony Wood, 64, calling the annual five per cent rises "ridiculous". He highlighted Walsall Council's £12m annual interest payments as wasteful spending.
However, not all residents are dissatisfied. Jayne Watson, 64, plans to vote Conservative as they were the only party to deliver a leaflet about local issues rather than national politics.
Election Details
Polling stations will be open from 7am to 10pm on May 7, with voters able to choose three candidates in their local ward. The all-out election will determine the makeup of Walsall Council for the next term.
