Harrow’s Green Party representatives are hoping for the chance to hold council leaders to account, as they outlined their five priorities in the run up to the local elections.

The party has struggled to gain a foothold in Harrow, as voters in the borough traditionally opt for Labour and Conservative candidates.

But those seeking election in 2018 believe now is the perfect opportunity for change, and they have promised to fight for a “healthier and happier” Harrow.

Emma Wallace, who is standing in the Greenhill ward, said: “We want to challenge the status quo and ensure that normal people and their concerns are represented.”

They are promoting a more effective approach to housing, transport and waste management, as well as protecting the safety of Harrow residents in an era of police cuts.

And the party, which is in favour of close UK-EU ties, believes the country thrives thanks to a diverse, multi-cultural society.

Ms Wallace added: “Our final pledge is standing up for the rights of all people.

“We’ve seen some terrible things come out of the Windrush story and we want more acceptance in society.

“We encourage foreign nationals to be here as they provide valuable culture and skills.”

She explained that the approach to Brexit is a perfect example of why leaders must be held to account, including at local level.

“Everything can be dealt with a bit better,” she said. “There’s talk of improving cycle lanes, for example, but we want to ensure that there is a clear, well-connected network.

“The same goes for waste management – we want to review the brown bin collection and the traffic situation at the recycling centre, which is discouraging people to recycle and can increase the fly-tipping problem.”

The Green Party has also vowed to assess the crime situation in Harrow.

This will include relaying a greater understanding of the tri-borough police merger with Barnet and Brent and assessment of cuts to youth services funding.

It also wants to improve road safety in the borough by promoting adequate cycle routes and reducing the speed limit in residential areas to 20mph.

And though Ms Wallace appreciates that history is against her group, she has high hopes for the upcoming elections.

“We’ve seen across London how Green Party councillors can make a real difference, for us to have that opportunity – even if it was just one representative – would be brilliant,” she said.