The local government funding crisis has become so dire that councils are being forced to sell thousands of public spaces, such as libraries, community centres and playgrounds. Between 2010 and 2020, councils will have lost almost 60p out of every £1 of funding and Government funding to North Somerset was cut by 28 per cent between 2010 – 2015. For example, spending on planning has fallen 55 per cent – making planning enforcement difficult.
- Councils should get rewarded not for how little they spend but for what they get done. Instead of equating frugality with success let’s start rewarding the council for its big goals. We need to change the conversation.
- We should prioritise investments in green spaces, libraries and community centres because our civic assets are the places that bring us together and they are what turns a village into a community. Having supported and well-maintained public buildings and spaces is important to community vitality and resilience.
- I will be an advocate for those who rely on council services.