Westminster Liberal Democrats announce strong team for May election that will always put Marylebone First

The Marylebone Liberal Democrats have announced their candidates for the local council elections this May: Helen Toeman, Martin Kersh and Luis Garcia, a determined local team standing to deliver the change residents are demanding.

For months, Helen, Martin and Luis have been out across Marylebone, knocking on doors and listening carefully to residents’ concerns. One message has come through consistently: people feel their Conservative councillors are not delivering enough for Marylebone and want representatives who will listen, consult properly and take action.

Residents have raised serious concerns about the lack of thorough consultation on plans to pedestrianise Oxford Street, with many feeling excluded from decisions that will have a major impact on their daily lives. Others have spoken about the ongoing neglect of the public realm, from poorly maintained streets and pavements to increasing amounts of rubbish in the area.

The Liberal Democrat team has also heard frustrations about e-bike clutter and rogue riders, with residents worried about safety, accessibility and the absence of effective enforcement. Many feel these issues have been allowed to spiral while Conservative councillors and Labour-run Westminster Council has failed to respond decisively.

Helen, Martin and Luis believe Marylebone deserves better. They are standing to be strong, visible local champions who will put residents first, demand proper consultation and fight for cleaner streets, safer public spaces and a council that works with, not against, the community.

The election in May represents a clear opportunity for change. The Marylebone Liberal Democrats are offering a positive, energetic alternative: councillors who will show up, listen year round and work tirelessly to deliver practical improvements.

Candidate Biographies

Helen Toeman

I was born, married and live in Westminster. Marylebone has always been a special place for me and I love its unique architecture,  great amenities  and most of all its vibrant community.

However, my canvassing of locals residents has revealed that many  are concerned about crime, pedestrian safety and decisions made without proper consultation

I'm standing as a candidate for the Lib Dems to be a strong voice for local residents  making sure their concerns  are heard and addressed. I joined the Lib Dems precisely because they champion community politics  and believe no issue is too small. I would bring my experience representing individuals as a school governor and on other voluntary bodies to this vital role.

Martin Kersh

Marylebone is my home, and I share the daily concerns you do. Too often, major decisions are imposed on us — driven by politics rather than residents’ needs.

Whether it’s Oxford Street pedestrianisation or local neighbourhood schemes — such as the plans for Moxon Street — residents’ voices must come first, especially on safety, transport and quality of life. I’m proud to serve on the Marylebone Association committee. If elected, I’ll listen, stand up for you, and make sure decisions always put residents first.

Luis Garcia

I’m a dual Spanish-British national with an Economics degree from UCL and nearly a decade of experience in investment banking and private equity, including at Lazard, based here in Marylebone. My wife is a British diplomat, and Westminster is our home.

I am standing for the Liberal Democrats because I believe practical experience, openness to the world and strong local roots matter in local politics. I want to put my background in business and international affairs to work in the service of our community - helping Marylebone remain a place that is prosperous, fair and a great place to live for everyone.