Kingston Independent Residents Group

Change is Coming.

We are the Kingston Independent Residents Group (KIRG) — the official opposition on Kingston Council. Formed by local people, we’re building a new kind of politics: independent, transparent and rooted in community values. We believe Kingston should work for everyone — not for Westminster parties, property developers or private interests.

Introduction from Group Leader, Councillor James Giles

For too long, Kingston has been run by Westminster parties who treat our borough as a political stepping stone. We’re here to do things differently — to fight for decent homes, public services, and a fair deal for local families.

We answer only to one boss: the residents of Kingston.

If you’re tired of party politics and broken promises, join us. Together, we can build a borough that’s fair, green, and democratic — where people come before profit.

Group Leader, Councillor James Giles

KIRG councillors have been leading the fight for social justice, accountability, and fairness across the borough. We’ve shown what independent, community-rooted politics can deliver — standing up for residents when others won’t.

We’ve:

Led the call for Kingston’s pension fund to divest from companies complicit in human rights abuses and the arms trade.

Called for a freeze on Council rents and housing charges to protect tenants during the cost of living crisis.

Brought forward a motion to limit Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) and defend community balance and housing standards.

Opposed Council Tax rises that hit working families hardest and fought against car park charge hikes, which punish local traders and residents.

Called for more transparency and accountability, ensuring residents know where their money is going.

We are proud to be the voice of local people inside the Council — challenging power and putting fairness first.

If you agree with us, please get in touch and join us today. Call 020 8050 5096 or email admin@kirg.org.uk

James Giles

Who represents the Kingston Independent Residents Group at Kingston Council?

Independents are the official opposition on Kingston Council. James Giles and Yvonne Tracey represent the Kingston Independent Residents Group, being elected in the Green Lane and St James Ward (New Malden) in 2022. Jamal Chohan, representing Tudor Ward, became an Independent in 2023. Kamala Kugan, representing Coombe Vale Ward, joined the Independents in 2024. They make up four of the six opposition Councillors on Kingston Council. If you would like their help with any local issues, please don’t hesitate to contact our office via Cllr Giles: james.giles@kingston.gov.uk or 020 8050 5102.

What does a Kingston Councillor do?

Councillors should first and foremost, represent their constituents. They deal with residents’ queries and requests in the areas that Kingston Council have control over. Councillors make decisions about the services that are provided by the council, taking part in council meetings where they are called upon to vote, and in committees that deal with specific projects, issues and services.

How can I stand for Council?

We’ve put together the following notes so that you can think about putting your name forward for selection under the Kingston Independent Residents Group banner. The next elections are in May 2026:

Kingston is crying out for representation with residents’ interests first and foremost rather than national party policies that might not fit our community;
There is a rising tide of residents’ opinion and also dissent amongst the ranks of the controlling party – residents are crying out for strong leadership in these times of crisis;
An allowance of over £9,000 per annum is payable;
You should be available for some evening meetings – a good deal of work is undertaken via email;
Candidates will have the strong support of a team of likeminded individuals and serving councillors.
If you are interested or want to find out more, please do get in touch by emailing james@kirg.org.uk

Are Councillors paid?

Kingston Councillors are paid a basic allowance of over £9,000 to enable them to undertake their duties, which are:

Being available and accessible to all of the constituents in their ward;
Preparing for and attending formal and informal meetings that they are invited to;
Representing the interests of the whole council area.

Some councillors have additional responsibilities and they are entitled to a special responsibility allowance to reflect the additional role.

Help us create a Better Kingston

We're fighting to make Kingston better, but need the help and support of residents to do this.

Join our Mailing List

Be it displaying a poster at election time, delivering a few leaflets in your road, or even standing for election - if you can help, we want to hear from you!

Change

Our Councillors

(the legal bit) | The Kingston Independent Residents Group is a UK registered political party with the Electoral Commission. Published and promoted by James Giles on behalf of the Kingston Independent Residents Group, all of 53 South Park Grove, New Malden, KT3 5DA.

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