Wycombe
Richard Phoenix

Childhood and Family Life

Richard Phoenix was born in Watford in 1963 and grew up in Northwood, Middlesex. Raised by supportive parents alongside his brothers, Mark and Ian, Richard's formative years instilled in him a strong sense of community and family values. He is happily married to his wife, Lizzie, known for her patience and support. Together, they have two children, Mia and Ben. Since 2016, the family has called High Wycombe home, embracing all that the community has to offer.

Career

A qualified Chartered Surveyor, Richard completed his studies at Cauldon College, Stoke-on-Trent, in 1987. He gained invaluable experience working with prominent firms such as Hillier Parker and Phoenix Beard. In 1999, he founded his own practice, Phoenix & Partners, establishing offices in London and High Wycombe.

Political Engagement

Politics has always been a passion for Richard, who has been actively involved with the Conservative Party, UKIP, and the Brexit Party, and currently represents Reform UK. He has run as a candidate in multiple local elections, including a bid for a General Election seat in 2017.

Vision for the Nation

Richard believes the UK is a great nation that has been let down by successive governments focused solely on power. He advocates for significant political reform in the House of Commons and the House of Lords, emphasizing the need for electoral changes. Richard argues that the UK must regain its self-belief and vision, focusing on prioritizing national interests over external opinions. He asserts that high immigration rates are straining public services and that reducing taxes will invigorate the economy.

A Call for a New Hospital

Richard emphasizes the urgent need for a new hospital in Wycombe. The current facility, built in the 1960s, is deteriorating rapidly, with cramped wards and poor ventilation. A 2022 report from Buckinghamshire Healthcare NHS Trust highlights that the hospital will be "not fit for use in the next 5 years." If elected, Richard is committed to lobbying Westminster for a complete rebuild rather than temporary fixes.

A Comprehensive Approach to Homelessness

Richard acknowledges the widespread issue of homelessness in Wycombe, which extends beyond those sleeping rough to include individuals couch-surfing or living in temporary accommodation. Local charities, like Wycombe Homeless Connection, strive to assist those in need, but without substantial national change, their efforts remain challenging. Richard believes that tackling the rising cost of living is essential, advocating for policies such as abolishing energy bill VAT and raising the income tax threshold. He envisions collaboration between central government, local authorities, and charities to eradicate homelessness in the area.

Creating a Cultural Hub

Wycombe's strategic location offers excellent connectivity to both London and Birmingham, complemented by a diverse industrial base. Richard sees potential in transforming the town's high street into a vibrant cultural hub. As MP, he plans to establish a task force that will engage with local stakeholders and organizations, such as the High Wycombe Regeneration Board and the Thames Valley Chamber of Commerce. The goal is to attract retailers and restaurants, enhancing the high street's appeal and competitiveness with neighboring towns like Beaconsfield and Marlow.

Richard Phoenix is committed to building a brighter future for Wycombe, ensuring that the community thrives through focused political action and community engagement.