Can the Tories win in Greenstead?

The question on everyones lips this morning on Social media is could the Colchester Conservative party win in Greenstead?

This was borne out of the local Tories campaigning this past Saturday, which led to angry public reactions from the incumbent Councillors.

A lot has been spoken about the northern red wall falling to the Conservatives, as the Labour party up north were obliterated in 2019. This even when the parties leader was enjoying high popularity within its own membership.

This is beginning to translate elsewhere, even the previously red Basildon has ‘fallen’. Or less dramatically, the residents have selected a different candidate. (Being less tabloid is best)

Although one of the key things said in outrage yesterday was the word ‘My’ especially in reference to the residents of Greenstead.

This is the start of the slippery slope, the belief of ownership of residents political viewpoints and the narrative that surrounds it.

I suspect that there will be retaliation and Labour will campaign in leafy Prettygate or Lexden. I say good, it is about time that disaffected socialists have their voices heard, just because of their postcode it does not mean that they don’t matter.

In 2021 Greenstead only had a 19.3% voter turnout and the Conservatives had an increase in vote share of 9.4%, so not surprised that it is now a target.

So to answer the question if the Conservatives can win Greenstead? The answer is yes. However, this is the same for any party and for any ward that has a committed candidate who is organised and a great communicator.

It is worth noting though that residents are the ones in possession of a Councillor and not the other way around. It will serve the incumbents well to remember that.

All parties should campaign in every ward, including Independents.

Get organised. Talk is cheap.