A WARRINGTON Borough Council candidate for the Appleton ward has highlighted the 'unacceptable' progress made by the current elected representatives as he continues his election bid.

Jonathan Levy, aged 24, is standing as Appleton's Conservative candidate but faces the challenge of beating Cllr Peter Walker (LD - Appleton) at the polls in the ward made up of three Liberal Democrat council representatives.

Mr Levy stood as a candidate for Appleton last year and has reiterated his desire to carry out his ambitions for the area.

He is vowing to tackle the issues of the rugby field, on Bridge Lane, as well as parking and speeding problems at Wrights Green, on Lumb Brook Road.

"It staggers me that despite these two issues rolling on for more than 30 years and 10 years respectively, very little progress has been made in resolving them," he said.

"Appleton’s current elected representatives insist they’ve done all they can but they’ve failed time and time again and I think this is unacceptable.

"I firmly believe that Appleton residents deserve and need a new, strong, ambitious and young local champion with fresh ideas to stand up and champion what matters to them."

Cllr Walker, who has represented the area since 2011, has hit back at the claims and has highlighted his record for helping to make change in Appleton.

"On the rugby field, people do not want it developing into houses but the lease is held by the rugby club - I doubt Jonathan will be able to do more on that," he said.

"We have acted and taken action on matters - the Sandy Lane tip was scheduled to be closed but we called in the council's decision and we will continue to monitor that.

"I am also hopeful of, and supporting, a local neighbourhood plan for Appleton Thorn - the request has been submitted. Much of the land there is greenbelt and residents would like to have an influence on it."

He also believes his dedication to the role all year round shows he is the right man for the role.

"I will continue to keep residents informed throughout the year - we don't just do it when it is election time," he added.