Lib Dems Set Out Policy Priorities For Hung Council

9.23.22am BST (GMT +0100) Thu 8th May 2003

Paul Elgood sets out the Lib Dems three key issues for Brighton.

Following last week's local elections, Liberal Democrat councillors have outlined the key policy areas they will be pursuing under the circumstance of 'No Overall Control'. Lib Dem Group Leader, Councillor Paul Elgood stated that the party had identified three key issues it would like to see implemented over the coming months and for which it will be actively seeking support.

The Lib Dem policy agenda will include calling for the introduction of three key priorities:

· A Neighbourhood Forum pilot;

· An extension of a city-wide comprehensive doorstep recycling scheme;

· King Alfred moderations.

Lib Dem Council Group Leader, Councillor Paul Elgood said:

"In the circumstances of a hung council the Liberal Democrats want to set out the policy agenda it will pursue over the coming months. From our manifesto commitments we have highlighted three key areas of policy, which we believe should be implemented by the council."

"We firstly want to see a pilot model for Neighbourhood Forums introduced to improve consultation and provide a direct link between the council and residents. This has been a long sought aspiration by the Lib Dems and represents our flagship policy for the city. Such proposals have always received positive backing from residents."

"Recycling in the city remains lack luster and has failed to be a priority for the council. We want to see a full extension of the Paperchasers scheme rolled-out immediately. We also want to see this expanded to include a range of recyclables such as plastics. Tackling the city's waste issues is paramount."

"We want to ensure that the council takes a sympathetic approach on the King Alfred development, which will ensure high class and exciting leisure facilities but not compromise the views of local residents who have very real concerns over the scale of any development."

"We believe it is important that in a circumstance of a hung council that we are open and transparent in our approach. I do not believe that smoke filled rooms are in the interests of residents, instead, far more can be achieved by the parties seeking to fulfil their own distinct policy agendas and being clear about these from the start."

Paul added:

"The circumstance of a hung council means that all parties have a duty to residents in ensuring that the functions of the council are undertaken effectively and efficiently. We will play our part in this. We will also be actively undertaking a policy agenda to achieve what we believe to be the best interests of the city."