Over-population biggest issue for St Sampson’s, says new constable

Mr Dilcock, who was elected constable in November’s parish elections, said that the parish was not an ideal location for additional housing developments as the road infrastructure was not good enough for the level of development proposed for the area.

‘From a personal point of view the level of development in the north of the island is too much for the road infrastructure,’ he said.

‘Traffic flow needs to be sorted out.’

However, while he admitted that housing was a problem, the focus for new developments in the parish should be on Leale’s Yard rather then already-densely populated areas.

Mr Dilcock also said the parish would benefit from the redevelopment of the Bridge.

‘The Bridge is our second town and could be a really vibrant local retail and leisure centre,’ he said.

‘The area needs infilling.’

The 64-year-old has served a douzenier in St Sampson’s for two years before being elected as a constable.

Mr Dilcock also serves on many other committees including the Retired States Employees' Committee, Vintage Agricultural Show Committee, the Occupation Society, the Committee of Management for Oddfellows Guernsey, the Health Equality for All committee and St Sampson’s Church management committee.

Mr Dilcock was born in Guernsey and has lived in St Sampson’s for many years. When he was young he lived in the parish with his parents and returned to his childhood home when his parents died.

He worked in financial services in the States for more than 40 years and also worked as the branch president of the Prospect union before retiring six years ago. He said that once he had retired he chose to get involved with the various committees and douzaine as he enjoyed serving the public.

‘When I retired it was either go off and do nothing or do what I have been doing my whole life and serve the public,’ he said.

‘I have the will to serve the public the best I can and a passion for the island.’

Mr Dilcock’s ambitions as a constable are to give people an opportunity to voice their opinions and help make changes to ensure a positive future for younger generations.

He took that approach to the 2020 general election. He secured more than 4,000 votes but was not elected.

Mr Dilcock said he would be willing to stand again in 2025.

‘As things stand, and unless personal circumstances change, I would be enthusiastic to stand again in 2025,’ he said.