About - Cllr Barry Gravenell

Hello, I’m Barry Gravenell, your Great Yarmouth First candidate for Gorleston and the Treasurer of Great Yarmouth First. I’ve lived my entire life in our borough, having grown up out at Hemsby and lived in Gorleston for the last 20+ years. This community has shaped who I am, and it’s the reason I’m standing — to give residents a strong, local voice that puts our people first.

I’m a local business owner and senior professional with expertise in business development, finance, accountancy, and operational governance. As the owner‑operator of two Gorleston‑based small businesses — one in IT services and the other in holiday‑let cleaning and management — I combine hands‑on commercial experience with strong strategic and administrative capability.

Across my career, I’ve built a proven record in process improvement, issue resolution, and implementing effective technology solutions. With solid knowledge of employment law, financial oversight, and organisational management, I bring decisive leadership, analytical problem‑solving, and team‑building strengths to every role I take on.

I’m proud to work alongside my colleagues within Great Yarmouth First as we stand up for our communities together.

Here on this page, you’ll find updates on local issues, the campaigns I’m supporting, and info as we hit the campaign trail.

I’m always happy to hear from residents, so please feel free to message me or comment on posts.

My Priorities

Transparency, Accountability and Value for Residents

Push for transparency, accountability and tighter spending controls at Norfolk County Council, ensuring residents’ money is properly justified. The Middleton Road Cycle Lane scheme shows why clearer scrutiny is essential before public funds are committed.

Oppose Housing Development That Fails to Put Infrastructure First

Oppose inappropriate developments such as on Links Road and protect the woodland at Meadow Park and Gorleston Recreation Ground, ensuring new housing is only considered when local roads, schools, healthcare, drainage, and community facilities can genuinely support it.

Resident‑First Parking Around the Rec

Support the introduction of a Controlled Parking Zone around Gorleston Recreation Ground to prioritise residents’ parking needs and reduce congestion during busy periods.

Rejuvenate and Rebalance Our High Streets

Work with the public health, trading standards, and economic development teams to prevent the over concentration of single type businesses — such as vape shops and barbers — and push for a healthier, more diverse mix of shops and services that genuinely support Gorleston’s community and high street economy.

Banking Hub for Gorleston High Street

Push for a dedicated banking hub on Gorleston High Street, work with Norfolk County Council’s economic‑development and community‑access teams to restore face‑to‑face banking providing essential services for everyone. Boosting footfall, support vulnerable and older customers, and help bring more people back onto the high street.