The Conservative Party has announced Phil Eckersley, a Trafford councillor and businessman, as its candidate for the next mayor of Greater Manchester. Eckersley represents the Bowdon ward and serves as the party's deputy leader and shadow executive member for health and care.
Business and Community Background
Councillor Eckersley founded Bridgewater Care Home in Wigan in 2010, which employs more than 100 people. He previously served as president of the Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce Wigan division.
Eckersley said: “Greater Manchester is my home, and it’s a region with enormous potential, but too often decisions are made with a focus on Manchester city centre – with the outer boroughs getting left behind.”
“As a business owner, father and local councillor, I understand the challenges facing families, businesses and communities across our city-region. From pressure on public services and concerns about crime and antisocial behaviour, to congestion, housing and the need for stronger local economies, these are issues I have dealt with directly throughout my professional and public life.”
“The Conservative Party has a clear vision for Greater Manchester – safer streets, better transport, thriving local businesses, responsible development and value for taxpayers’ money.”
Endorsement and Controversies
Laura Evans, a former councillor who stood as the Conservative candidate in the 2021 and 2024 mayoral elections, told the M.E.N. she was 'delighted' the party had selected Eckersley. She said: "I think he's a great choice. He's an absolutely brilliant councillor and will be a fantastic mayor."
Councillor Eckersley objected to the Cresta Court Hotel in Altrincham being transformed into accommodation for asylum seekers, stating that the decision had been made without prior consultation with local authorities or residents. The use of the hotel, along with the Britannia Ashley Hotel in Hale, proved controversial and was the focus of regular protests in recent years. The Cresta Court has been closed to the public since October 2024 and is believed to house up to 300 asylum seekers.
In December 2025, Trafford Council called on the Home Office to end the use of the Cresta Court and Ashley Hotels for asylum accommodation. Ashley stopped housing asylum seekers there earlier this year. Connor Rand, the Labour MP for Altrincham and Sale West, has said the government remains committed to closing the Cresta Court as well.
Election Details and Candidates
The mayoral by-election is scheduled for July 30. Other confirmed candidates include Geraldine Coggins (Green Party), Bev Craig (Labour), Richard Kilpatrick (Liberal Democrats), and Marlon West (Restore Britain). Reform UK has yet to announce a candidate.
