Marsh Ward Green Party councillor Jon Barry, is to step down at the May City Council elections.

Jon said:  “One of the things I'm proudest of on the Council was pushing forward the city's first new allotment site in my memory -  at Cinder Lane in Scotforth. I'm also proud of my role in saving the Storey Institute after the Council agreed to sell it. A big disappointment was the loss of an indoor market in Lancaster, although I am proud of my role in keeping the thriving outdoor market in the centre of town."

Jon has been an active community worker in first Castle Ward and then Marsh Ward. Jon said:

"I've always believed in working with the local community. We've had some great successes including the building and running of the Marsh Community Centre, the makeover of Dallas Road Gardens in the early 2000s and numerous improvements to play areas and parks. I'm really proud of my work with the Fairfield Association in negotiating the FAUNA nature reserve agreement with the City Council."

Even though I was born a mere southerner, I’ve developed a strong attachment to the Marsh area and the west of Lancaster in general. Standing down was a very hard decision but I feel that I need to recharge my batteries and let others take up the baton.”

“I will continue the fight to preserve Freeman’s Wood and in my role as a trustee and chair of the Marsh Community Centre. I also want to give time to working with and supporting my green colleagues who I hope will be elected in May.”