Richard Smart, was born in Newtownards in 1985 and lives in the area. First elected to Ards and North Down Borough Council in 2014, for the Newtownards DEA, and since re-elected in 2019 and 2023 with an increased vote. Richard served as Mayor of Ards and North Down with a focus on uniting the community, whilst also raising almost £20,000 for deserving causes.
Before politics, Richard worked in housing and finance, across the private sector, and utilises this experience to the benefit of constituents. Richard has used his elected platform to campaign on many issues including tackling dereliction, the increase of sanctions for anti-social behaviour and littering, as well as the promotion of positive mental health and the retention of local tourism assets such as Exploris Aquarium in Portaferry.
As the General Election Candidate for Strangford, Richard is proud to provide positive, pro-active and inclusive pro union Leadership to vote for on July 4th, with a focus on more local jobs, training opportunities and affordable housing, helping to support the diverse union of people that ensures our country is a successful and attractive place for people to live, work and visit.