Kristy Adams, a local businesswoman who co-owns the family design business in the building industry, grew up and lives in the constituency, she attended Handcross Primary and Warden Park schools and was elected as a Mid Sussex District Councillor for Bolney.
Kristy has been an active campaigner on issues that matter to local residents. In 2022/23, she worked with local residents to protect villages from inappropriate development and it is a priority for her to defend the rest of Mid Sussex. Her business skills in the retail sector and the building industry make her an ideal candidate to engage the key stakeholders in delivering the town centre Burgess Hill needs and deserves. Kristy will also champion a new mixed-used cultural and community venue built on the site of Clair Hall, Haywards Heath.
Kristy said:
I am proud to call Mid Sussex my home, and I’m looking forward to meeting with residents, businesses and community groups across the constituency. As a local resident and small business owner I already understand the issues that matter to us in Mid Sussex. Before entering politics, I had a successful career as a retail manager working for M&S and Jaeger and now I run a loft conversion design business in the building industry. I am confident that the skills and experience that I can bring to Parliament will ensure a strong and effective voice for Mid Sussex.
My Mum was an A&E sister at Cuckfield and the Princess Royal hospitals for over 35 years - she taught me compassion, to work hard and that love conquers all. My Dad was a business consultant and loved nature, he taught me to hunt for wild orchids on the South Downs and respect nature. The business lessons he shared with me of how to budget, be responsible with money and strategic thinking have been invaluable as I volunteer with charities, schools and also in my own business. I aim to use my background in business, arts and social justice to serve my local community.
Kristy has proved to be a hard-working campaigner, both on the doorstep and networking within the community. Securing better education for all children inspired Kristy to get involved with politics, she has experience of leading leaders, overseeing projects in both local government and business. She is passionate that all taxpayers get good value for money, with efficient services providing the best care for all.
After hearing a lecture by Ben Cooley from Hope for Justice Kristy took the initiative to create partnerships with police and voluntary groups to raise awareness of the crime of modern slavery, and help victims. She led training conferences and worked with a team delivering a garden highlighting the issue of modern slavery at the Chelsea Flower Show, her team won a Gold medal.