Dan Tomlinson’s victory for Labour over Tory incumbent Theresa Villiers in Chipping Barnet in July was not just an electoral win but a symbolic one as well. His triumph by 2,914 votes marked the first time the suburban seat in the outskirts of London had seen a non-Conservative candidate elected. This outcome reverberated far beyond the local constituency, signaling a shift in attitudes towards housing development in the leafy suburbs.
Since his election, Tomlinson has been incredibly active, engaging with various organizations, attending events, and advocating for important issues in his community. He has been a vocal proponent for step-free access at local stations and has been lobbying for increased police presence in Barnet. Additionally, he is spearheading initiatives such as a car theft summit and a campaign for a “smartphone-free” Chipping Barnet to safeguard children from social media-related harm.
On a broader scale, Tomlinson is committed to Labour’s economic growth agenda and aims to improve living standards for all. His background in economics, working with organizations like the Resolution Foundation and the Joseph Rowntree Foundation, has equipped him with the tools to address poverty and economic challenges. His focus is on collaborating with the government to enhance the well-being of Chipping Barnet residents and people across the country.
Tomlinson is also advocating for increased economic development in London, working closely with Mayor Sadiq Khan. He is advocating for infrastructure projects like a new HS2 terminus at Euston and Crossrail 2 extension to High Barnet. His goal is to bridge the gap between inner and outer London to bolster the city’s economy.
Housing is a key priority for Tomlinson, who supports Labour’s ambitious plan to build 1.5 million homes by 2029. He understands the impact of the housing crisis firsthand, having experienced homelessness as a child and struggled with renting and saving for a deposit in London. Tomlinson is keen on utilizing previously-developed land within the Green Belt, known as the “grey belt,” for housing to address the housing shortage.
Despite concerns about overdevelopment, Tomlinson assures constituents that the government’s focus is on brownfield sites in urban areas and regulated development on grey belt sites. The proposed housing target for Barnet is lower than the previous government’s, indicating a balanced approach to housing development.
In his upcoming maiden speech, Tomlinson plans to celebrate the suburban life and his role as an MP for a suburban constituency. As a resident of Barnet and a new father, he values the suburban lifestyle and aims to represent the interests of his constituents effectively. Tomlinson’s commitment to economic growth, housing development, and community well-being positions him as a proactive and dedicated representative for Chipping Barnet.