Labour’s contempt for residents

I attended the meeting of the borough council’s executive board on June 17, to hear members’ comments on the draft parking strategy for the town. As a Liberal Democrat parish councillor in Stockton Heath I have received many concerns from traders, professional services and residents that the increased parking charges at The Forge car park are having a detrimental effect on the economy and vibrancy of the village. Similar concerns have been expressed in regard to the increased charges in the council car park in Lymm, and around 4,000 people have already signed the Liberal Democrats’ petition calling on the council to reinstate the free 2 hours parking in both car parks.
The Executive Board meeting agenda had 9 other items in addition to the draft parking strategy. Very important items, including budget monitoring, adult social care and climate change. Did any member have any questions about any item? No. Did any member have any comments about any item? No. Was the 4,000 strong petition even mentioned? No. The meeting lasted just 30 minutes and was nothing more than a rubber stamping exercise. One attendee spent the entire 30 minutes typing on an ipad and the deputy leader spent the first 15 minutes engrossed with his mobile phone. The fact that there was a member of the public (me) attending the meeting clearly didn’t warrant any pretence of respect. The draft parking strategy, which was adopted without challenge, is based on the responses of just 254 people who took part in the consultation. The 4,000 residents who have exercised their democratic right to peaceful protest through a petition have been ignored and treated with utter contempt by this arrogant Labour administration.

Ann Raymond
Warrington Liberal Democrats