The Green Party candidate has set out his vision for Barton and Winton ahead of the upcoming by-election to be held on the 22nd April, positioning himself as an alternative to both Labour and Reform UK.

Jack Groom, who lives just off Barton Lane, has worked locally in the heritage sector for nine years and volunteers as a trade union representative. He has also taken his campaign for better pay and conditions for low-paid workers to Westminster, where he has met government ministers.

A father of two young children due to start school in the ward this September, Groom says his priorities reflect the concerns of local families.

He points to the Green Party’s second-place finish in the last local elections and recent gains across Greater Manchester as signs of growing support, arguing the party is now the main alternative locally.

Groom says residents are facing rising living costs, declining public services and increasing inequality, and claims long-term Labour control of Salford City Council has led to a lack of accountability.

He is critical of developments such as the former Crown Theatre site and plans for Eccles town centre, arguing they risk prioritising “luxury apartments” over local needs.

Groom also questions Labour’s record, saying candidate Catherine Goodyer cannot deliver the change she promises.

He is similarly critical of Reform UK, accusing the party of offering “grievances without solutions” and raising concerns about its candidate, Michael Felse, over his past political affiliations.

Setting out his priorities, Groom says he would push for better home insulation to cut bills, more affordable housing, improved SEND support, expanded youth services and better transport links, including a tram stop at Barton upon Irwell and step-free access at local stations.

If elected, he says he would act as an independent voice on the council, holding the leadership to account.

“A vote for the Greens,” he said, “is a vote to make hope normal again.”