Action, Not Just Words: Why I Built This Archive
Many candidates talk about “transparency.” I decided to build it.
As a candidate for Redruth North, my approach is simple: if something isn’t working, let’s find a practical way to fix it. This searchable archive is a direct response to a problem I’ve raised at Town Council meetings for years: Our public records are online, but they aren’t truly accessible.
How this archive connects to my aims for Redruth:
1. A Council that communicates clearly
Transparency shouldn’t be a chore for residents. Currently, finding out how a decision was made requires scrolling through hundreds of scanned PDFs. I built this tool so you can find answers in seconds. I believe the Town Council should provide this level of clarity by default, not as an afterthought.
2. Removing barriers to great ideas
Redruth is full of energy and creativity – from the workshops we run at Invention Club to the makers who joined us for Cornish Contraptions and the hoards of people who want to join in and contribute practical skills to improve the town. But that energy gets stalled when people can’t find the information they need to get involved – like who is responsible for what and things that have been tried before.
By making council minutes searchable, I’m helping remove those “small barriers” so your ideas can move forward faster.
3. Practical skills for a better town
I make websites, I was an IT / Compuring / Digital lecturer at Cornwall College for many years. I have experience in working with hundreds of small businesses across the south west as part of my recent role. I co-created Fluxus Cornwall CIC, where we run practical intergenerational workshops to make games, automata and electronics. All of my work is a combination of practical skills and being good with people.
This archive is a practical tool designed to help you hold local government accountable. I don’t just want your vote; I want you to have the tools to “jump to your own conclusions” based on the facts.
About Paddy Deakin
I’ve lived locally for over 13 years and served as a parish councillor in Carn Brea. I don’t just attend meetings; I participate. I have:
- Pushed for earlier and more accessible minutes (leading to some improvements by the council and the creation of this site).
- Raised concerns when planning decisions didn’t follow local policy.
- Delivered town-centre events for Fluxus that brought over 1,000 visitors to Redruth last year.
My Commitment to You
If elected to Redruth Town Council, I will bring this same “can-do” attitude to the chamber. I want to see a council that:
- Backs our independent traders and finds creative uses for empty shops.
- Makes our public spaces safer with better lighting and maintenance.
- Actually listens and provides clear updates when you report a problem.
Transparency is the basis for the public and the council working together. Transparency and openness shouldn’t be a request—it should be the default.
Vote to bring this “can-do” approach to the Town Council.
I built this archive because I believe transparency shouldn’t be a chore for residents. It’s a small, practical example of how I approach problems: see a gap, find a solution, and get to work.
On Thursday, March 26th, you have a choice. If you want a Town Council that is proactive, easy to talk to, and focused on practical results for Redruth North, I’m asking for your vote.
Stay updated as we head toward polling day: I’m posting daily updates on my campaign, local planning issues, and my ideas for a more vibrant Redruth over on Facebook.