A new political party has been launched in Kingston ahead of the May local elections, hoping to shake the council up – the Kingston Independent Residents Group (KIRG).

Mary Clark, the KIRG group leader and existing councillor for the Old Malden ward, said: “Today marks a turning point in the political landscape at Guildhall. Residents who have, for many years, been fed false promises by the national parties just to secure their vote now have an alternative voice, that will fight for them at Kingston Council.

“Residents don’t want national parties telling them what’s good for them locally; they want to decide for themselves. We’ll unveil our detailed policies nearer the election, but have no doubt about it, our plans are big, bold and are all about residents getting their voices back and deciding for themselves.”

Other prospective candidates announced include business owner and Berrylands resident Oliver Eakin, development campaigner and Coombe Vale resident Patrick Wylde and long-standing councillor for Old Malden David Fraser.

Mr Eakin said: “It is critical that residents from all backgrounds have a voice. That means we want both fresh faces and those with seasoned political experience to help drive a broad set of policies focussed on things that matter to people – the local economy, quality of life, fiscal responsibility, and a proper long-term vision. We’ve got working mums, existing politicians, successful small business owners and everything in between.

“Residents have become increasingly fed up at being let down by the current council on a whole range of issues. We’ve seen a steady stream of people sticking their hands up to become candidates in the run up to this launch. We’ve still got space for more.

“If you love where you live and want to make a difference for the residents of Kingston, drop us a line through our website. We want to hear from you.”

The group’s website, kingstonindependents.org.uk, has a list of principles: make Kingston Council more transparent, accountable and inclusive; deliver fiscal responsibility at Kingston Council; give priority to resident services, including care for the vulnerable, young and elderly; and always independently represent residents’ views.

Campaigners will be hoping to mirror the neighbouring Surrey borough of Epsom and Ewell, which has a council controlled by the Residents Association.