James Peterson
Lliswerry born and bred, with a background in nursing, public services and community work. James believes in listening to residents, challenging unfairness and making sure Lliswerry’s voice is heard.
James was born on the Moorland Park estate and returned there after marrying in 1999 to raise his family. He now lives in the Traston area. His working life has taken him from the steelworks to supporting people with learning disabilities, qualifying as a Mental Health Nurse, running his own property maintenance business and working for Newport City Council.
Long before being elected in 2022, James was involved in local community projects. He co-founded Lliswerry Community Association and remains its Chairman today. He believes local politics should be about helping people, working together and being prepared to challenge decisions when necessary.
What James has been working on
The idea behind the £500,000 No One Left Behind Fund
James originated the idea of a community investment fund and passed it to the Lliswerry Independents’ group leader, who used his experience to develop and progress the proposal. Working together, the group helped turn the idea into the £500,000 No One Left Behind Fund, approved by Cabinet in June 2025.
Challenging unequal enforcement
Investigated complaints about residents being warned for driving across pavements to access their driveways. His Freedom of Information requests revealed that over 73% of the city’s recorded enforcement correspondence during the period examined related to Lliswerry, prompting questions about fairness and consistency across Newport.
Representing residents at committee
Regularly speaks at planning and other council committees on behalf of residents. His representations on the Traston Lane development raised concerns about flooding, protected trees, drainage and the impact on Newport Cricket Club. The application was refused by Planning Committee in August 2026.
Protecting homes and drainage systems
Has worked with residents to investigate flooding concerns, including historic drainage ditches and reens. Through his involvement with Natural Resources Wales’ Internal Drainage District Engagement Group, James continues raising local concerns about drainage responsibilities and flood prevention.
Co-founder and Chairman of Lliswerry Community Association
Helped establish the association and continues as Chairman, working alongside volunteers to support community improvements, litter picks and local events. He also helps organise the annual Santa’s Sleigh Ride, now in its sixth year, collecting donations for local charities.
Standing up for residents
Takes up residents’ concerns involving housing, highways, antisocial behaviour and council services. James believes representing people means being prepared to challenge decisions, even when the outcome isn’t guaranteed. Some representations succeed, others don’t, but every resident deserves to be heard.
Listen, challenge, follow through.
