“I have a reputation as someone who listens, represents residents and takes action.Now is the time to help local people have a say in local matters they deserve. I want to amplify their voices for the good of the community, to ensure that services they rely on and the future of the community is not at risk. ”
Councillor for Ousburn Division, Harrogate & District
Arnold Warneken is a husband, father and grandfather and has lived and worked in Harrogate for many years. After returning from university in Leeds, he worked supporting Bilton Conservation Trust, securing the future of Nidd Gorge and campaigned for HALT. In 1990 Arnold was elected as the first Green onto Harrogate Council and became Chair of the Area Planning 2, Town Twinning and Environmental Health Committees. He was also the District Council representative on the Selby Police Liaison committee.
Now semi-retired, Arnold is still a partner in an organic horticulture & food distribution business. He is also involved in other local companies, including sustainable firewood and organic dog food. These businesses have won numerous awards, such as 1st in Harrogate BAFTER, 2nd in BBC Food Awards, Rick Stein Food Hero, Ethical Award & more.
Arnold also puts time aside to be the Chair of Tockwith Festivals, Springbank Surgery Patient Group Chair, and a Harrogate Health Authority Clinical Commissioning Group member. Earlier this year, he was asked to join Harrogate Climate Coalition (set up by Harrogate District Council), with the brief of Food & Agriculture.
At the start of the COVID pandemic, Arnold organised 20 volunteers to deliver prescription medicines to local GP practice patients. Additionally, he set up a community allotment based on his smallholding, allowing local families to grow food in a supportive but socially distanced space.
Much of Arnold’s work has led him to have extensive TV, radio, and press experience on green issues. Plus, working with local councils and committees, he is an experienced negotiator, meeting chair, mediator, team-builder, and running his own business for over 30 years. Arnold has also raised £30000 for specialist medical equipment for his local GP practice.