Montrose

I am honoured to stand as the SNP candidate for the Angus North and Mearns constituency, and am determined to be a strong, local voice for Montrose, ensuring the community’s priorities are heard at the heart of the Scottish Parliament.

Montrose boasts a fascinating blend of history, culture and forward-thinking industry. From the ancient golf links and the wildlife of the Montrose Basin to the energy of MoFest, and the heritage found at the House of Dun and Air Station Heritage Centre, Montrose is a global attraction.

The resilience and community spirit of our people is best seen in the initiatives transforming our streets. The community-led Pro-Mo has done exceptional work in revitalising our High Street; their vision for the former M&Co store, promising a vibrant social hub for all ages. I am equally inspired by the Montrose Urban Guerillas, whose tireless work keeps our town looking its best. Adding to these is the incredible work being done by the Montrose Community Trust, building a stronger, healthier community through sport, education, and wellbeing initiatives, helping people to build confidence, connection, and purpose. I'm particularly pleased to see the work they do providing a lifeline for with those with Dementia and their families. I am excited to see the development of their Gable End Project at Links Park, and if elected will support their endeavours wholeheartedly.

This and other projects like the Union Park Community Sports Hub are essential investments in our health and social fabric. These spaces will help our community grow stronger and stay active for generations to come. The success of the Montrose Playhouse, which received significant SNP Government funding, is a shining example of what we can achieve when we invest in community-led change.

Scotland’s offshore wind sector offers immense potential, and Montrose Port is perfectly positioned to lead the way. I was proud to see the SNP Government commit £3.2 million toward the Port’s redevelopment, supporting a total investment of £7.2 million to expand local infrastructure. This is a clear demonstration of our commitment to securing high-quality jobs in Montrose for decades to come.

On the doorsteps, you have shared the issues that matter most. I know the deep concern regarding the erosion of the Montrose dunes and the efficacy of mitigation measures. The SNP Government has already supported Angus Council with nearly £730,0000 via the Coastal Change Adaption Fund and if elected, I will work hand-in-hand with local and national policymakers to secure a robust, long-term plan for the Angus coastline, including Montrose.

I have also heard your frustrations regarding bus reliability, train timetables, housing, and anti-social behaviour. These are not just talking points - they are the hurdles affecting your daily lives. I am committed to tackling these head-on to ensure Montrose remains a safe, connected, and affordable place to live.

If you elect me to be your constituency representative, I will be a tireless champion for Montrose in the Scottish Parliament. I would be incredibly honoured to earn your vote on 7th May, so make it both votes SNP to elect me as your constituency MSP and for an SNP majority in Holyrood for the next parliamentary term.

Beyond tourism, the town serves as a vital hub for the oil and gas and the burgeoning renewables sector – industries providing essential jobs for local families and drawing new talent to our area. Glaxo Smith Kline remains a long standing presence providing the world with life-changing medical respiratory treatments at its Montrose manufacturing plant.