Tower and Town, April 2020 (view the full edition)Councillor Mark CooperMr Mark Cooper is the Deputy Mayor of Marlborough Town Council. Many of his relatives have been involved in local government. He said that growing up with an awareness of area politics has had a big impact on him in that he always knew what was going on politically in the town. He has lived in Marlborough his whole life and has had close connections with both St John's and Marlborough College. He was a pupil at St John's and had cousins at the College. He remarks on the fact that he likes the cheeky banter between the two schools and believes that it is healthy. He believes that Marlborough Town is extremely lucky to have two incredible schools. Mark has many aspirations, such as Open Spaces for children and making sure the community comes together. We asked if Mark found being a councillor hard work and, without missing a beat, he replied, "I love having a positive impact on the Town and serving my community." Mark told us that the Council are putting in new play areas that are environmentally friendly and that they are also taking environmental issues very seriously. When asking him about his views on getting a train station in Marlborough, he said that he was open to looking at the economics and sustainability of reopening a station. The Council are considering whether it would be justifiable. We asked Mark why he decided to focus on School and Child Facilities. He answered that he loves the incredible and beautiful open spaces that are accessible for everyone. We asked whether Brexit would have an effect on the town and, understandably, he thought it was too early to say and that, if there were to be an impact, it would not begin until next year. Mark said that, all in all, Marlborough is a great town but like most things in life there's always room for improvement, and one thing that would improve Marlborough would be more affordable housing to allow young people to stay. The interview was very interesting and we had no idea how much work went into being a councillor, and how passionate you have to be for your town to strive and do well. Mark is putting his right foot forward for Marlborough and striving to make the town a better place. Nancy Mollo and Iona Jones |