DAVID REAPER (From Warrington Guardian)

DAVID REAPER

Liberal Democrat Spokesperson

AT this election the political parties are stressing the differences which exist between them, but in reality many of the decisions taken by Vale Royal Borough Council are endorsed by all parties.

The Liberal Democrat councillors have endeavoured to work with Labour and the Conservatives to achieve maximum political consensus because local government works best in an atmosphere of co-operation and respect.

There are policy differences between the parties, but the Liberal Democrats will continue to offer constructive criticism where appropriate and be willing to play their part in furthering a greater degree of informed debate to reach all-party unanimity.

The protection of our environment will be one of the key themes of the Liberal Democrats in the next four years.

We will carefully scrutinise decisions, assess their potential impact on the quality of life of our citizens and the environment in general.

Protection of the Green Belt, ensuring that development takes place on old industrial sites, and recycling, are areas where we intend to press for action.

In addition, we need to inform the police authorities, in a forceful manner, the concerns of the general public.

Throughout Vale Royal our towns and villages are crying out for greater police presence.

Some of our citizens are feeling insecure and unprotected. We welcome the recent police plan as a positive lead in solving some of the issues of concern but they, like local government, are confined by a resources straight-jacket.

Liberal Democrats promise to work for the best interests of the community and at this election many of the people of Vale Royal will be given the real opportunity of electing Liberal Democrat councillors. Those who already have them can confirm that they make a difference.

Converted for the new archive on 13 March 2001. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.