LOCAL politicians are preparing to battle for two key seats on Colchester Council following an unexpected pair of resignations.
Long-standing Highwoods councillors Gerard and Beverley Oxford stepped down from their roles amid a dispute over disability access at council meetings last month.
A by-election is now set to take place to fill their empty seats on Thursday, December 8.
Colchester’s Labour, Liberal Democrats and Greens joined forces in May to oust the Conservatives from power during the local elections.
The Conservatives hold 19 seats on the council while the Lib Dems have 14 and Labour have 13.
Colchester's Greens possess two seats and Independent Mark Goacher holds the last spot in Castle ward.
Labour leader Adam Fox said he is now gearing up hoping to take the two seats.
He said: “We’ve selected our two candidates, two great community champions Pauline Bacon and Catherine Bickersteth.
“We’re fighting to win both seats here because we know people will be better off with Labour councillors representing them and that’s our main focus right now."
Mr Fox said his team is focusing its attention on navigating the financial crisis and supporting residents.
“Our number one focus this year is the cost of living crisis we’ve got to do everything we can to support residents,” he added.
Colchester Conservative boss Darius Laws revealed David Linghorn-Baker and Richard Martin will be vying for the seats.
He said: “What Colchester Council needs to do is think about planning, housing and its services that people encounter on a daily basis. Picking up the bins and running the services.
“I’d urge people to consider what this means for Colchester; we are fighting to win.”
Liberal Democrat Martin Goss said his candidates, Alison Jay and Chantelle Whyborn, were ready to work hard for the ward.
“We are already working and dealing with issues in the ward and remain proactive in helping residents,” he said.
The Greens have not yet decided if they will be putting forward any candidates, Castle councillor Richard Kirkby-Taylor stated.
He added: “It is looking increasingly likely that we’re not but we are yet to formally make that decision.”
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