Ellie Chowns MP for North Herefordshire

Visit to Wyevale Nurseries

Sasha Shevchenko — Mon, 20 Apr 2026 09:18:49 +0000

Ellie was delighted to visit Wyevale Nurseries in Hereford to discuss the challenges and opportunities facing the horticulture sector.
The visit included conversations on the impact of climate change on the industry, the importance of water resilience, and the role government can play in supporting businesses to operate more sustainably. It was valuable to hear directly about the pressures facing the sector and the steps being taken to adapt to a changing environment.
Businesses like Wyevale Nurseries play an important role in the local economy, and it is vital that they are supported to thrive in the years ahead.

The post Visit to Wyevale Nurseries appeared first on Ellie Chowns MP for North Herefordshire.

Call for Fairer Local Tax System

Sasha Shevchenko — Mon, 20 Apr 2026 09:12:49 +0000

Ellie Chowns has highlighted concerns about the current Council Tax system, describing it as outdated and unfair for many households.
She pointed out that Council Tax places a disproportionate burden on those with lower incomes, with some of the poorest households paying a larger share of their income than the wealthiest. Ellie emphasised that reform is long overdue and called for a more equitable approach to local taxation that better reflects people’s ability to pay.
Ensuring a fairer system is an important step towards tackling inequality and supporting households facing cost of living pressures.

The post Call for Fairer Local Tax System appeared first on Ellie Chowns MP for North Herefordshire.

Visit to Herefordshire Headway

Sasha Shevchenko — Mon, 20 Apr 2026 08:58:06 +0000

Ellie was pleased to visit Herefordshire Headway and meet with the Say Aphasia Support Group to learn more about the collaborative work supporting people living with aphasia.
The visit highlighted the important partnership between Headway, the NHS and SayAphasia in providing support, building confidence and helping people stay connected within their communities. It was valuable to hear directly about the experiences of those involved and the positive impact of this work locally.
Initiatives like this play a vital role in ensuring that people living with aphasia can access the support they need and continue to participate fully in everyday life.

The post Visit to Herefordshire Headway appeared first on Ellie Chowns MP for North Herefordshire.

Visit to Pembridge

Sasha Shevchenko — Fri, 10 Apr 2026 09:27:55 +0000

Ellie was pleased to visit Bloom and Grind bakery, along with other local businesses in Pembridge, to directly hear about the challenges facing small businesses.
This visit provided an opportunity to discuss the pressures many businesses are experiencing, as well as what more can be done to support them and ensure they can continue to thrive. Small businesses play a vital role in local communities, contributing to the local economy and helping to keep high streets vibrant.
It was valuable to hear first-hand from businesses owners and to understand the issues affecting them and their staff.

The post Visit to Pembridge appeared first on Ellie Chowns MP for North Herefordshire.

Our Place Showcase Celebrated in Leominster

Sasha Shevchenko — Tue, 24 Mar 2026 11:46:06 +0000

Ellie was delighted to visit the Our Place showcase in Leominster and see first-hand the artwork being created through the programme.
The showcase highlighted the creativity and talent of participants, while demonstrating the positive impact of the project in supporting health and wellbeing and increasing access to the arts. It was inspiring to see how local initiatives like Our Place are helping to bring people together and create opportunities for expression and connection.
Programmes such as this play an important role in strengthening communities and ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to engage with the arts.

The post Our Place Showcase Celebrated in Leominster appeared first on Ellie Chowns MP for North Herefordshire.

Bromyard Ring Walk Launched

Sasha Shevchenko — Tue, 24 Mar 2026 11:33:50 +0000

Ellie was delighted to attend the launch of the Bromyard Ring Walk, a new route showcasing some of the best of North Herefordshire’s landscape and heritage.

The circular walk highlights a range of local landmarks, offering residents and visitors the chance to explore the countryside, enjoy nature and discover more about the area’s rich history. It provides a fantastic new way to experience Bromyard and the surrounding communities.

The project is a testament to the dedication and hard work of Bromyard Walkers are Welcome, whose efforts continue to promote access to the countryside and encourage more people to enjoy walking and outdoor activity across the county.

The post Bromyard Ring Walk Launched appeared first on Ellie Chowns MP for North Herefordshire.

Call for a More Flexible Approach to Fiscal Rules

Sasha Shevchenko — Mon, 16 Mar 2026 09:54:19 +0000

Ellie Chowns has highlighted concerns about the Government’s rigid fiscal rules, noting that even the Institute for Fiscal Studies (IFS) has questioned whether they are working effectively.
Speaking about the issue, Ellie said that if the UK is to properly tackle the cost of living crisis facing families across the country, the Government needs to move towards a more flexible and strategic approach to economic policy.
She emphasised that economic decisions should focus on supporting households and investing in long-term solutions, rather than being constrained by inflexible fiscal rules.

The post Call for a More Flexible Approach to Fiscal Rules appeared first on Ellie Chowns MP for North Herefordshire.

Celebrating the Importance of the River Lugg

Sasha Shevchenko — Mon, 09 Mar 2026 11:26:47 +0000

Ellie Chowns spent Valentine’s Day on a special mission to #LovetheLugg, meeting with local businesses, volunteers, farmers and citizen scientists who are working to protect and celebrate the River Lugg.
The visit highlighted the many ways the river supports wildlife, local culture and the rural economy. From community volunteers to farmers and environmental groups, the people involved demonstrated the vital role rivers play in the life of the county.
Ellie thanked everyone who took part in the day and for their ongoing efforts to care for and restore the River Lugg.

The post Celebrating the Importance of the River Lugg appeared first on Ellie Chowns MP for North Herefordshire.

Celebrating Herefordshire’s Cider Makers in Parliament

Sasha Shevchenko — Mon, 02 Mar 2026 13:56:03 +0000

Ellie was delighted to meet Herefordshire cidermakers at the recent Cider Makers’ Reception in Parliament and to help celebrate this important local industry.
Cider making is a vital part of Herefordshire’s culture and heritage, supporting rural livelihoods and sustaining traditional orchards across the county. It was wonderful to see the contribution of local producers recognised and celebrated on a national stage.

The post Celebrating Herefordshire’s Cider Makers in Parliament appeared first on Ellie Chowns MP for North Herefordshire.

Cross-Party Meeting with Minister on the Future of the River Wye

Sasha Shevchenko — Mon, 02 Mar 2026 13:48:01 +0000

Ellie Chowns recently helped secure a cross-party meeting with the Minister for Water and Flooding to discuss ongoing challenges in the Wye catchment.
The meeting focused on the urgent need for further progress in restoring the River Wye, supporting farmers to transition towards river-friendly methods, and addressing the growing impact of flooding on local communities.
Ellie emphasised the importance of sustained government action to improve water quality, protect wildlife, and ensure that farming and environmental protection can work hand in hand. She will continue working across parties to press for meaningful progress for the River Wye and the communities who depend on it.

The post Cross-Party Meeting with Minister on the Future of the River Wye appeared first on Ellie Chowns MP for North Herefordshire.