Councillor David Harding, a former Mayor of Coleraine has reigned from the Ulster Unionist Party to stand as an Independent Unionist member of Causeway Coast and Glens District Council.
Cllr Harding said that he feels he will be able to represent the area better without the restrictions of the party system.
Speaking about his decision, he said that Coleraine has suffered a great deal in the recession and deserves a clear, independent voice in the Council Chamber. He went on to say that he believes Coleraine should be established as the regional capital with investment focused on regenerating Coleraine Town Centre as well as bringing more jobs to the town.
Cllr Harding said that the falling number of people voting in elections shows a clear disillusionment with the current system, especially at the local level. Mr Harding went on to say that he intends to demonstrate his commitment to the community, regardless of background and that he intends to work with Councillors from across the chamber to promote the interests of people living in Coleraine.
Source: Coleraine Chronicle.