THE Liberal Democrat opposition voted against the proposed budget at Warrington Borough Council’s full Council meeting on Monday, raising concerns that they had been left in the dark about proposed cuts.
There were 38 votes in favour, 15 against and 1 abstention.
Group Leader Cllr Mark Browne said, “We recognise these are challenging times for all councils. While we support many of the efficiencies identified by the officers, it is concerning that Labour has not consulted with us,
leaving us in the dark about many of the details behind the proposed cuts. We had very little time to consider the proposals and there were areas where we sought further information to assess their impact. In the last few days, we have collaborated proactively with officers to develop alternative solutions to issues of great importance to our residents while retaining the balanced budget. We are pleased that the ruling group has agreed to earlier consultation with us next year.”
Finance Spokesperson and former leader Cllr Ian Marks added, “Public finances in the country are in a dreadful state. The Labour Government inherited an awful legacy from the Conservatives but sadly it has made a mess of several things with unrealistic predictions about turning things round quickly. Most councils are struggling to balance their books with massive pressures on adult social care, supporting children with special educational needs and disabilities and homelessness. Nationwide, one in seven hospital beds are occupied by medically fit patients waiting for care packages. We welcome devolution but there is a danger in assuming it will solve all our problems. The Government has said that multi-year settlements will be introduced in 2026 and this should make planning easier.
There are three cuts that have been of greatest concern to the residents we represent. Removal of free parking at the car parks in Lymm and Stockton Heath generated masses of objections, including a petition with over 4000 signatures. Following discussions with officers, we are very grateful that compromise solutions have been found that retain free parking. But residents do not understand why carparks north of the Canal are free and they regard this as grossly unfair.
The recycling centre at Sandy Lane in Stockton Heath needs to go but we need a replacement in the south. This has been promised and Homes England accept it is a requirement. Without a tip in the south, cross-town traffic will increase, made worse by all the new build planned. We are disappointed the ruling group has not renewed its commitment to a new tip.
Libraries play a vital role in our communities and it is most unfortunate that the library in Westbrook is due to close. Stockton Heath and Lymm are the two most used libraries in the Borough and we understand it is planned to run them with volunteers. If true, there must be full consultation with users, Friends’ Groups and Parish Councils to review opening days and hours and how the new operational model will work. A staff member is needed for volunteer management.”
Cllr. Rob Tynan
Meanwhile, Tory spokesman Cllr Rob Tynan said: “Labour’s financial mismanagement is catching up with them. This is yet another budget of smoke and mirrors from the Labour administration. They gambled taxpayers’ money like a hedge fund, racking up £1.8 billion in debt, backing failing investments, and ignoring the need for efficiency and accountability. Now, a £30 million black hole looms over their budget.
“Last year, the Conservatives warned their budget was not balanced and we were right. Now they’re doing it again. Will history repeat itself with another immediate overspend?
“Labour promised to freeze council tax. Instead, they’ve hiked it to the max, despite families struggling with rising costs.
“As the only Conservative Councillor, I voted against Labour’s budget because residents deserve better.”
