New Plymouth councillors wants to be visible

Anti-social behaviour and GP access top of the priority list

One of Plymouth City Council’s newest councillors says he wants to be as visible as possible as he puts tackling anti-social behaviour and increasing access to GPs and dentists at the top of his priority list.

Labour councillor Stefan Krizanac gained the Plymstock Dunstone seat from the Conservatives in a by-election last month following the death of long serving councillor Vivian Pengelly, a former leader of the council, who had represented the ward for the Conservatives since 1997.

Cllr Krizanac said is enjoying his new role, despite the circumstances in which he won the seat.

“I am sad that this by-election happened because of the death of Alderwoman Pengelly. I know how well-respected in our community she was and she will be greatly missed,” he said.Plympout

“It may be a cliché, but it really is an honour to have been elected by the people of Plymstock Dunstone. Even before I was elected I was getting phone calls from the residents to deal with the issues they have.

“And since my election, the casework hasn’t stopped and each day more is coming in which is great because people already know that I am here to help.

The new councillor joins Labour colleague John Stephens and Conservative David Salmon in representing Plymstock Dunstone.

He said the feedback from residents had been really positive: “Myself and John have held a surgery and it will be a regular event so we can see people face to face if that’s what they want. Our aim is to reach as many people in the ward as we can and we are finalising the schedule. We will aim to cover Sherford, Elburton, Staddiscome and Plymstock.

“There are lots of other ways to get hold of me if a resident can’t make a surgery, All the details of how to phone or email me are on the council website, and I’m looking forward to hearing from people.

“My priorities are the reduction of anti-social behaviour in the area, a better relationship with police and working more closely with them and working with the NHS to increase access to GPs and dentists. It’s exciting to be part of a Labour council which is already making such a difference in such a short time.”

The Royal Mail worker said he would try to be present at meetings organised by organisations in the ward. “People have put their faith in me. I will be working with Cllr Stephens on our plans and commitments and our plan is to be very visible.”