Councillor Steve Ricketts has spoken to The Plymouth Post about his plans as he prepares to help Reform UK win seats in the upcoming local elections.
Steve, who represents Drake Ward, was previously a Conservative councillor and later served as an Independent. Now with Reform UK, he says he wants to bring practical changes and new energy to the city.
“Plymouth has enormous potential,” Steve told the Plymouth Post. “But too many residents are frustrated with slow-moving regeneration projects, empty high streets, and parks and facilities that don’t get the attention they deserve. I want to fix that, from streets to pubs, parks to community spaces.”
He highlighted Plymouth’s National Defence Growth Area status, calling it a “once-in-a-generation opportunity” to attract investment and create skilled jobs across the city.
Looking ahead to the 7 May elections, Steve said he hopes to build support for Reform UK and deliver practical change for local communities. On how big a Reform breakthrough could be, he said: “We’re aiming high, and we believe in we can win significant support across the city this May.”
Reflecting on his own political journey, Steve said his biggest regret was losing by just 13 votes in 2019 when he stood for election. “It taught me to be a better campaigner, because you learn more in defeat than in victory,” he said.
When asked about his political inspirations, Steve named Winston Churchill and Nelson Mandela, praising their leadership, perseverance and ability to bring people together despite division.
Away from politics, Steve says he enjoys the film Home Alone and considers the Bible his favourite book, citing its influence on moral guidance, culture and personal values. “I also love spending time with my kids, they have a magical way of pulling you out of adult worries,” he added.
Reflecting on yesterday’s Full Council meeting, Steve told The Plymouth Post that during the debate on a motion calling for a by-election, he made clear his position. He said he told councillors: “My country is on the line. I need to align myself with Reform UK.” He also described the motion as “basically legalised bullying by the Labour Party,” and added that he felt it could be used to “distract the population from the misery that the Labour Party had caused them.”
Photographs © Wayne Perry / Plymouth Post