Emma Jones for Waterloo
I’m Emma Jones — Waterloo business owner, community champion and now your truly independent candidate for Waterloo in Ashton-under-Lyne in the local elections on Thursday 7th May 2026.
Born and bred in Waterloo, this community shaped who I am and I’m committed to its future.
I’m standing as an independent because there’s too much playground politics locally and not enough focus on real solutions for real people.
As the founder and owner of a multi award-winning local business, I’ve built my career around care, respect and putting people first. My approach has always been hands-on, practical and personal. I will bring these values directly into public service.
I’m married, with two children and two dogs. Family life keeps me grounded in what truly matters. I love the outdoors, country walks and spending time with family and friends. I believe our community deserves practical, compassionate leadership that listens, is inclusive and delivers.
I’m not a career politician — I’m a working mum, a neighbour and someone who sees the issues on our streets every day. Whether it’s supporting vulnerable residents, improving access to mental health services, protecting small businesses or giving local people a stronger voice, I will always stand up for fairness community, and common sense.
I’m asking for your vote, not just to represent you, but to work alongside you. Let’s bring compassion, independence and trust back into our council.
Key Policies
Road Safety in Schools
Road safety is a critical issue affecting children, families, and the wider community. As a candidate, my policy will propose a locally driven programme to bring practical, engaging road safety education into our schools, equipping young people with the knowledge and awareness they need to stay safe.
Road Safety
Potholes are a constant challenge to road users. I will commit to getting potholes repaired promptly, to a durable standard, and with greater accountability from the local authority.
Moving away from short term fixes to long-life repair methods within our community to ensure the safety of all drivers.
Safer Crossings
Residents have consistently raised concerns about pedestrian safety on Newmarket Road, Wilshaw Lane and Park Bridge. These roads experience regular traffic flow, yet safe crossing points are limited or insufficient—particularly for children, older residents, and those with mobility needs.
This campaign commits to lobbying the council to deliver safer, more accessible crossings to protect our community.
Anti-Social Behaviour
Strong communities rely on mutual respect, safe streets, and responsive housing management. Concerns about nuisance neighbours, the need for better collaboration with housing providers, and the rise of unsafe use of e-bikes and scooters are increasingly affecting residents’ quality of life.
This policy sets out a practical plan to restore confidence, improve accountability, and keep our neighbourhoods safe.
Drug dealing and drug misuse can have a damaging impact on our community, leading to anti-social behaviour, crime, and a decline in community safety. Many residents want action, but often feel unsure or reluctant to report concerns.
This policy focuses on empowering residents to report issues safely and confidently, while ensuring authorities respond effectively.
Drug Misuse
To develop, implement, and sustain a proactive, inclusive, and community-led Neighbourhood Watch programme across the entire Waterloo ward, enhancing public safety, reducing crime, and strengthening community cohesion.
Neighbourhood Watch
Fly Tipping
Fly-tipping is a persistent issue that damages our environment, harms community pride, and places unnecessary financial strain on local services. This policy sets out a clear, community-focused approach to identifying problem areas, improving clean-up efforts, and ensuring stronger enforcement against offenders.
Refuse Collection
Reliable refuse collection is a basic service that residents should be able to depend on. Missed bin collections cause frustration, create public health concerns, and contribute to environmental problems such as littering and fly-tipping. My policy sets out a clear commitment to addressing ongoing issues and demanding immediate, accountable action from Tameside Council.
Grids
Blocked grids and gullies are a serious concern for residents, increasing the risk of surface water flooding, property damage, and road safety hazards. In areas such as Waterloo, urgent and coordinated action is needed to identify problem locations and ensure swift resolution. This policy sets out a proactive, community-led approach to tackling blocked drains and preventing flooding.
Community Engagement & Impact
I am a dedicated community advocate whose work has made a meaningful difference across Ashton-under-Lyne and the wider Tameside area. Through compassion, leadership, and hands-on involvement, I have become a trusted and respected figure in the local area. My commitment to supporting individuals and families, particularly during challenging times, reflects my strong belief in the power of community.
From organising fundraising initiatives and supporting local charities, to contributing to grassroots campaigns and humanitarian efforts, my impact can be seen in both large-scale projects and everyday acts of kindness. I have played an important role in bringing people together, raising awareness for important causes, and delivering tangible support where it is needed most.
See below to learn about my community contributions, highlighting the projects, partnerships, and community efforts that continue to shape a stronger, more connected Ashton, Waterloo.
