Nick Love, Parliamentary candidate for the Liberal Democrats in York Central, here sets out his vision for the future of the city.

How lucky are we to live here – this glittering jewel in not just Yorkshire but the UK. I’ve lived in York for 32 years and still get that feeling of pride when I tell people where I live and they say “You lucky thing”.

That doesn’t mean we can rest on our laurels.

We have things to build. Lives to improve. Visions to turn into reality.

The world’s leading cities are always evolving and York is no different. York’s historic charm attracts seven million visitors annually and with them a vibrant economy. But we can celebrate its heritage whilst creating its future.

York may be a prosperous city but that doesn’t hide the fact that many people I’ve spoken to in York are only just about making ends meet.

You the citizens of York are my number one priority. We need to give you the best possible living experience as residents but also the widest opportunity to have a say in what needs changing and to participate in decision making that improves your lives.

Lib Dems also have other key priorities that will bring big improvements for York.

House prices and monthly rental are too high. York badly needs new affordable housing so we will prioritise house building on identified sites.

We need a root and branch transformation of transport infrastructure. Roads are clogged, journeys are slow and the air quality due to standing traffic is a health hazard. The improvement of one will have a direct effect on the other.

Health workers in York must feel valued. An increase in funding to enable them to do their jobs effectively has to be combined with a pay rise so they don’t see a constant fall in their standard of living. A world class mental health facility to replace Bootham Park Hospital is essential.

School funding needs increasing not constantly cutting, so teachers get the resources to enable them to give our kids the best possible chance of success.

York’s vibrant independent business sector can’t be stifled by constant rent and rate rises designed to make up for drastic cuts from central government.

The mark of this great city was illustrated by how its residents reacted to adversity. Those acts of unfailing generosity during the floods were seen worldwide.

Heroes walked our streets in those dark days:- countless acts of kindness from big hearted citizens. They didn’t look for recognition – just for people to help.

If you vote for me, I’d be honoured as a community activist in York Central to bring all my knowledge and experience to representing this great city of ours.