Meet Your Councillor – Matt Bell

Name: Matt Bell 

Ward you represent: Wey Valley 

Any committee roles?   

Sports and Activities Champion 

Vice Chair of Services Committee  

Planning and Licensing Committee Member 

Rights of Way Lead

Chair of Funfair Working Group 

Tell us a little bit about yourself:  

“I live and work, as a teacher, within the Wey Valley Ward. My young family and I love the easy access the ward provides to the countryside, coast, and cycling.”

“I teach humanities at the local secondary school with a specialism in geography gained through my studies at the University of Exeter. I enjoy sport and travel, especially if it involves some cycling, and I try my best to pass my enjoyment of the outdoors on to my own children and the young people I teach.”  

What motivated you to become a councillor?  

“I am keen to help to move the town towards a more economically, socially and environmentally sustainable future. I think we are incredibly fortunate in Weymouth and the potential in the town and local area is enormous, it just needs to be harnessed.”

“I am keen to promote local events/activities and I would love people to share them on my X (formerly Twitter) profile @MattBellSDorset.”

What do you enjoy most about the role? 

“I have enjoyed hearing from local residents about the issues that are important to them. I have been delighted to hear from many residents who want to protect our local environment and create new opportunities for people in the town. It has been a privilege to work alongside many local sports and charity groups to enable them to move forward with their numerous exciting projects that benefit all age groups within Weymouth.”

What’s the most frequent issue you deal with in your ward? 

“There have been several correspondences in recent weeks regarding concerns about potential flooding around Nottington and the impact of recent residential developments. I am keen to assist local groups and individuals who are already engaging with authorities to assess and amend any issues.”

Do you have any advice for anyone thinking about becoming a councillor? 

“If you are interested in your local area and have a passion to help people, then get involved. The role is a little daunting at first, but other members of the council are welcoming and offer support with the processes involved.”

How can people contact you if they have an issue to raise?  

X (formerly Twitter) : @MattBellSDorset 

Email: cllrmattbell@weymouthtowncouncil.gov.uk 

ENDS