Exeter is split up into 13 different wards. Each ward typically has 3 councillors. So what does this mean? Here is the official answer! "A councillor's primary role is to represent their ward or division and the people who live in it. Councillors provide a bridge between the community and the council. "
This is no light task as there are over 130,000 people living in Exeter. We need to be aware of our councillors and engage with them when we feel something is wrong or if there is a better way of doing something. The next time you see a tree being felled on Council land or a green space being lost - ask your councillor "why?" If we don't ask these questions then nothing will change. Politics is boring - but it plays a crucial part for the future of our trees and green spaces.
If I was a councillor (not that it interests me in the slightest) - I would be a councillor for all of Exeter representing all of the trees and green spaces across Exeter. At the moment we have just under 40 councillors representing Exeter. Regardless of their Party - they should be approachable and understanding - in all matters of the city of Exeter. I recommend reaching out to them and voicing any concerns that you have. After all - if they don't have any news from the residents then nothing will be fed back to the Council and nothing will change.
The next time you have a walk through your local park of green space take the time to enjoy it - but also ask yourself - could it be better? Are there enough benches or bins? Are the children's play facilities well maintained? Is there any play equipment at all? Is the nearest green space too far? Are the trees in good condition? Are there enough trees? Are there enough tree officers? Don't be afraid to ask these sort of questions. The more feedback our councillors have about our green spaces and trees - the more that can be done by the Council to improve them. Below is a list of the councillors in Exeter and how to reach out to them.
