We’ve invited all the local election candidates to complete this questionnaire so you know more about the people asking for your vote on the 4th of May. We’re also compiling a list of their websites and social media accounts so you can follow them and get in touch if you have any questions.
Follow @mycardiffnorth
Name – Marc Palmer
Party – Labour
Ward – Whitchurch and Tongwynlais
Website –
Twitter – @MarcPalmer75
Facebook – WhitchurchandTongwynlaisLabourNews
How can people get in touch with you? – wtlabour2017@gmail.com.
About You
Tell us about yourself
My name is Marc Palmer and I’m one of four Labour Candidates standing for election in Whitchurch and Tongwynlais.
I have deep roots in this ward. I grew up in Whitchurch and lived there for 30 years and went to the local High School. Most of my family and friends still live in Whitchurch and it’s a place that will always be close to my heart. I run my own business which, for the last 6 years has been located in a prominent position in Tongwynlais High Street.
I am passionate about the local community in which I live and work. I am a strong believer in giving something back. I can often be seen initiating and contributing to litter picking events, planting flowers, building paths, installing benches in the community.
I now want to make more of a difference and have more influence in shaping the community in which we live and the services from which we benefit.
I will ensure that every person in the ward, regardless of religious belief, disability or gender, is empowered to put forward their views, their wishes and their feelings, that they are not discriminated against, and that they understand and feel that they have a voice which is respected, always.
I love all sport and am a local children’s football Coach. I also sponsor several local children’s teams.
I’m a big fan of most types of music and in my younger days could be found hosting events in Cardiff, many of which would be written about in Local and National magazines.
What are the biggest issues in your ward?
In addition to the EU Referendum, this is the third year in a row that we have had elections so we have had a great opportunity to speak with many residents.
Parking is an issue across the ward as is speeding traffic and potholes. Residents have told us they want the public toilets restored in Whitchurch Village, they also want the Library to remain open and publicly funded.
The new Velindre Hospital development is causing some anxiety in the area surrounding the proposed site.
What’s your favourite place in Cardiff and why?
I love to watch Cardiff City and Wales play rugby, so both the Cardiff City Stadium and the Principality Stadium are firm favourites of mine. I also like to walk along the Taff Trail. But ultimately, my house, Christmas lunch with all my family around, that’s the best place.
What do you think should be done to improve engagement in politics?
For people to feel engaged they need to feel part of something. All too often people feel that their views and concerns are not being taken seriously enough. It is important that politician don’t over promise on things that can’t be delivered.
What’s your favourite film?
Love a good comedy, too many to choose from.
If You’re Elected
What will you do to improve your ward?
I would look further into the parking issues that have been brought up on the door step especially around Kenfig and Celtic Road.
I would lobby the Council to bring forward plans to extend the 20mph speed limits to include all residential streets in Whitchurch and Tongwynlais as soon as possible. Look to ensure that Whitchurch remains a vibrant village and that the area remains a clean and safe place to visit.
Work with local event organisers so that the events like the fantastic Christmas Lights switch on run as smooth as possible with as little impact on local residents as possible.
How will you communicate with residents in your ward?
Facebook and email are great ways to keep in touch with residents, but we must continue the current Labour commitment of holding regular surgeries and sending out newsletter updates.
What issues that affect the whole city would you like to get involved in?
The City Deal could be a game changer for the region, a genuine opportunity to have substantial investment in the travel infrastructure of the Capital Region. Better public transport and connectivity will certainly help with the congested roads we see every day in our villages.
Final Comments
What would you change about Cardiff and why?
I would like to see more for children to do in the City. There are some great groups run by volunteers, some from Whitchurch Rugby Sports and Social club. Although times are hard and budgets are being cut by Westminster, I would like to see the Council support these groups as best as it can and help them develop to their full potential.
Any final comments?
We live in a great part of the City, a City which is widely regarded as one of the best places to live in the UK. If selected, I will work tirelessly for the ward and its constituents. It will be an honour and a privilege to be elected as a Labour representative and to serve our local community and the City of Cardiff.
My Cardiff North 