Sandy Town Council Welcomes New Councillor Robert Lacey
Date Added: 24/10/2022
At a meeting of Sandy Town Council on Monday 10th October 2022, following a vote by Councillors, Robert Lacey was co-opted onto the Council, to fill a vacancy in Ivel Ward.
Robert was born in Bedfordshire and has lived in the county for most of his life. He and his wife have lived in Beeston for the last 15 years. Robert’s decision to apply for the vacancy arose from his enthusiasm for local people and places. Before his appointment, Robert said, “I am interested in helping create and maintain community in Sandy and the surrounding area, and in particular the maintenance and conservation of the built, rural and wild environments.
Robert has already been involved in volunteer work in the community. During the depths of the COVID pandemic, he ran a prescription collection service for vulnerable residents in Beeston, with the help of 8 other volunteers. This was a great success and Robert says he would happily co-ordinate similar community efforts in the future.
The Lacey household is also hosting a Ukrainian refugee; an experience which has made Robert enthusiastic to help others in the Ukrainian community in the future. He said, ‘I have been in a great position to help others navigate the complexities of getting VISA’s approved, arranging all the necessary registrations once arrived and finding language or vocational courses to help them adapt to the UK.’
Cllr Lacey’s professional skills will also be a great addition to Sandy Town Council. Robert is a career Railway Engineer and is currently the Deputy National Technical Head of Track for Network Rail, specialising in Track Geometry and Innovation Projects. He also has previous experience as a Highways Engineer. As a Civil Engineer, he has a wealth of knowledge on built environments and infrastructure – particularly around transportation. He is also knowledgeable in solar and green energy. His interests in local photography and technology will also be great assets to Robert in his future as a Town Councillor.
Mayor of Sandy, Cllr Martin Pettitt said, "On behalf of all Members, I am pleased to welcome Cllr Lacey to Sandy Town Council, and I look forward to working with him over the coming months."