THE last of the three main parties fighting the Chelmsford Council elections have launched their campaign.

The Conservatives, who run the council at present, will be fighting all 57 seats on Thursday, May 5, and are hoping to retain power, which they have held for the past eight years.

The launch took place on Saturday, in the High Street.

The message from the Tories in their bid to regain control of the council is “a lot done, but more to do”.

Roy Whitehead, leader of the Conservative group and candidate for South Hanningfield, Stock and Margaretting said: “Chelmsford has made great progress over the past eight years and this year there is no council tax increase because the council is living within its means.  “Running the council efficiently has enabled us to increase investment in street cleaning, refurbish the Civic Centre making it fully accessible to the disabled and provide a new home for the CAB.  “But we’re not sitting back. Even in these difficult times we’ve got some exciting projects in the pipeline.”

He added: “Bringing John Lewis and Primark to Chelmsford is a great vote of confidence in the town and its future.  Encouraging business to bring new jobs into the area is one way in which the Conservatives plan to protect Chelmsford from the recession.

“Chelmsford is not just a place to work it’s also our home, which is why the Conservatives plan to provide much-needed, affordable housing, improve local recycling and protect local woodlands and green spaces.

“This is a rounded package that is affordable and sustainable and will ensure Chelmsford continues to grow and thrive.”

Candidates spoke with shoppers, listening to their concerns at the launch.

The Tories hold 31 of the 57 seats with the Liberal Democrats 26. Polls are open from 7am to 10pm on May 5.