02/05/2026
✖️Let’s take a closer look ✖️
In this 2026 election, Rainhill Independents are highlighting a range of pledges and achievements.
Many of these will be familiar to residents. Some have also been referenced in previous elections and relate to work completed a number of years ago. After 7 years of representation, it is reasonable to look not only at what has been done, but what comes next.
Some of the points below also reflect concerns and questions raised directly by residents on the doorstep during recent conversations.
Key points residents are raising
* Local sports support
Positive investment, but how is support prioritised across all Rainhill teams?
* Local sports support
Investment in grassroots sport is positive and welcomed by many. It has also been mentioned publicly that improvements to facilities have increased the value of the site. Some residents have questioned how this applies where land is held under lease from St Helens Council, and have asked for clarity on how value is assessed and who ultimately benefits from that community investment? How does this building upgrade help other teams in the area instead of just one?
How is support prioritised across all Rainhill football teams in the future?
* CCTV and safety
Important for security, and residents are seeking clarity on maintenance and monitoring.
* Community initiatives
Groups such as Reach Rainhill and wider wellbeing programmes are valued across the village.
* Green Belt protection
A shared success, supported by strong community involvement.
* Cleanliness and maintenance
Additional bins are welcome, but roads and crumbling pavements remain a concern for many.
* Local services
Library provision and access to services continue to matter to residents. They are confused about the one library that has been set up and the potential of another library being discussed by the Independents.
Why does Rainhill need two libraries?
There were also questions about a point raised on our Reform page saying that once Rainhill library was closed by St Helens Labour run Council and we had no library then why were we still paying for a library in our council Tax?
Why was this not challenged in chamber?
* Community facilities and events
The dog park, farmers market, and Christmas lights are well supported and valued.
* Infrastructure
Some resurfacing has taken place, but wider infrastructure still requires attention.
* Anti-social behaviour
Partnership working is important, and residents want to understand how this is delivered locally.
* Housing and planning
The Rainhill Road HMO application was refused on planning grounds, including lack of suitable outdoor clothes drying space and insufficient parking. Residents are also asking about the sale of the Premier Inn Hotel at the back of the Ship Inn. Time will tell on this. We do hope it will continue as a hotel.
Residents continue to look for balanced and appropriate development in the area.
Some felt let down by Rainhill’s non intervention into the Local Plan.
* Heritage and regeneration
Rainhill’s connection to the Rainhill Locomotive Trials presents real opportunity, and future plans remain important.
* Community wellbeing
Training, safety initiatives, and support programmes are positive and appreciated.
* Representation
Residents want a stronger voice for Rainhill in the council chamber, with clear and consistent advocacy on local issues. They don’t want councillors to abstain and waste their vote.
During doorstep conversations some residents have also raised questions about where investment has been directed in recent years, particularly in relation to the loss of the local library (which they still pay for) progress on the station museum project, and long-standing ideas such as improved pedestrian access, including a potential footbridge.
A range of views have been expressed. Some residents have questioned whether the level of progress over recent years reflects the potential of Rainhill, with comments suggesting that, after several years of representation, they would expect to see clearer outcomes and a more defined plan for the future.
The question for 2026 & beyond..
Is Rainhill getting the focus, investment, and forward planning it deserves, and what is the clear plan for the future?
This is about listening to residents, building on what has worked, being open about what can improve, and ensuring Rainhill moves forward with a clear and positive direction.
The choice now rests with the people of Rainhill. Do you feel the current approach is delivering, or is it time to consider a different direction?
Vote Rainhill Reform UK 7th May 2026 🗳️🩵
