Why we are standing
We didn’t plan to run for office.
We became involved through practical local issues in our neighbourhood – changes to streets and transport, parking, development proposals, and consultations that affect daily life. Like many residents, we tried to engage in the usual ways: reading documents, attending meetings, and responding to consultations.
At some point it became clear that the underlying problem with council decisions was how they were made. Residents’ needs and feelings are routinely ignored, information on proposals hard to find and plans often forced through despite local opposition. Long-term one-party control has reduced scrutiny, and choices affecting our area are often shaped by party politics, ideology, or borough-wide priorities rather than local realities.
We explored other parties, including the Liberal Democrats, but found their position on key local issues unclear and inconsistent in practice. At present, there is no one genuinely speaking up for the people who live here when decisions are made.
It became clear that if our neighbourhood is to be properly represented, someone local needs to stand outside the party system. That’s why we are standing as independents.
What independence means in practice
No party affiliation
We are not bound by party positions or internal discipline. This allows us to question decisions publicly and bring them into the open to improve transparency and accountability.
No ideology first
We don’t have a wider political agenda. Local issues are practical. Streets, access, safety and services should be decided on evidence and lived experience, not political templates.
Representing local residents
We are standing to represent the people who live here – to speak for the neighbourhood on local decisions that affect everyday life.
This is how local democracy is meant to work.
Our Priorities
Alexandra Park ward is a place where families put down roots. With much-loved local schools and Tambo Rec at its heart, it is a neighbourhood built around everyday family life. Children should be able to walk to and from school safely and in clean air, without residential streets turning into wide routes for through-traffic.
A family neighbourhood, not a corridor
Many families, elderly and carers here rely on cars. Parking and access aren’t luxuries – they are part of how people manage school runs, caring responsibilities, work, and daily life. Basic local services matter too: safe pavements, speed limit enforcement, clear communication about road works, bin collection, thriving local businesses – it all shapes our daily life.
Living real lives
Residents should be able to understand how choices are made and influence outcomes before they are fixed. We will ask difficult questions, challenge actions pushed through despite opposition, and bring issues into the open to strengthen transparency and accountability.
Accountability and transparency
Alexandra Palace, Tambo Recreation Ground, Hollickwood Park and the green spaces of Pinkham Way are local treasures and shared gems of our area. They should be protected and cared for.
Protecting what makes this place special
Meet the candidates
Yulia Bakman
Alexandra Park resident and independent candidate
Alexandra Park resident and independent candidate
Helen Gerolaki
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Local resident, APS and Rhodes parent, directly affected by decisions on streets, schools and neighbourhood planning
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Professional background in operations, marketing, and economic research, with a PhD in Economics and experience in complex problem-solving, systems and budgets
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Decided to stand after becoming involved in local transport and consultation issues and seeing residents’ concerns repeatedly overlooked
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Local resident for over 20 years, with strong ties to the neighbourhood and community life
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Highly specialist psychotherapist with more than two decades of experience across the NHS and voluntary sector, including senior and governance roles
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Decided to stand after years of working with complex decision-making systems and seeing how local voices can be sidelined
It’s simple really - local people to make local decisions. They are best suited to advise and assist in local issues. Yulia and Helen have no agenda except to help us locals. They will listen. They are intelligent and reasonable people. Fair people. That’s why they are getting my vote and the local vote.
Joanna, Alexandra Park Road
I am glad someone independent is stepping up who will finally put Alexandra Park residents first. It’s time we elect those who truly represent us.
Stephen, Victoria Road
We need independent councillors who are free to speak for residents without checking a party line first. Yulia and Helen are prepared to ask difficult questions and demand transparency. That’s why I support them.
Cathy, Alexandra Park Road
Get in touch
If you live locally and want to share a concern or ask a question, we’d like to hear from you.