Watford voters reveal key issues for 2024 general election

As the campaign trail rolls on, the Watford Observer spoke to people in the street about what matters to them and who they think will lead the country after July 4.

Gary Crowe, who has lived in Watford all his life, believed Labour will come out on top, but was not convinced it will make an immediate difference after 14 years of a Conservative government.

He said: “It’s a bit like someone going into your house and bulldozing it and then giving you a tube of super glue to put it back together.”

The 61-year-old, who is currently unemployed, added that changes to the high street were also important to his vote as there was “nowhere” for local bands to perform following the closure of local nightclubs and bars.

Gary Crowe felt there was “nowhere” for local bands to perform following the closure of local nightclubs and bars. (Image: Newsquest) The health of the town centre was also important to Anthony Brown, as he called for the return of John Lewis as well as free parking to attract people back to the shops.

The father of three said: “There are a lot of shops in Watford like pound stores and I just think it’s bringing down the tone of the town.

Anthony Brown said an influx of pound shops had brought down the tone of the town. (Image: Newsquest)

“A lot of my friends who have some money have stopped shopping in Watford because there’s nothing here for them.”

For lifelong Watford resident Claire, the cost of living crisis and funding for the NHS were the biggest issues at the general election.

The 55-year-old mum of three said: “It’s the rising prices, it’s not being able to afford the essentials or necessities as well as no luxuries.”

Watford mum Claire said the cost of living crisis was affecting many people. (Image: Newsquest) The trained chartered engineer hoped for a slim majority for whichever party wins on July 4, adding: “I do think it’s useful if there has to be a consensus to get ideas through government.”

Joanna Evans, who has lived in Watford since the 1990s, agreed that funding public services and the cost of living were important issues for Watford.

The NHS worker in her 60s said: “We are getting a new hospital but we haven’t got enough staff and there’s also loads of people who are struggling with high rents.”

• Who can I vote for at the 2024 general election in Watford?
• July 4 General Election called as Watford candidates react

NHS worker Joanna warned there was not enough staff to fill the new Watford General Hospital when it is built. (Image: Newsquest)

She was not sure how people will vote at the election, but warned: “It’s not going to be an easy fix but we need a change in this country.”

Business owner Stuart Coyle, however, defended the Conservative government’s record as he said he appreciated the “amazing” economic support for self-employed workers during the Covid-19 pandemic. 

But the 63-year old grandfather from Radlett added: “I’ve been voting Conservative for a long time but now I’m thinking of voting for someone as a voice of discontent.”

Long-time Tory voter Stuart Coyle said he would be voting for a different party at the election as voice of discontent. (Image: Newsquest)

Watford constituency candidates for the general election on July 4, 2024:

• Dean Russell – Conservative and Unionist Party
• Arran Bowen-la Grange – Green Party
• Gary James Ling – Reform UK
• Khalid Chohan– Workers Party of Britain
• Ian Alexander Eric Stotesbury – Liberal Democrats
• Matt Turmaine – Labour Party
• Sarah Jane Knott – Heritage Party - Freedom. Family. Nation.