Lib Dems Push For Frontline Funding

12.00.00am UTC (GMT +0000) Wed 13th Feb 2002

Liberal Democrat councillors have announced plans to reallocate council funding to more front line services.

At tonight's meeting of Bedford Borough Council Executive Committee, Liberal Democrat councillors are to announce plans to alter the Councils budget proposals.

Liberal Democrat Group Leader, Michael Headley said:

" We have set ourselves the priority to get things done here and now. We want to see funding for services such as improved children's play areas brought up the agenda. We also want to see bus passes for men from the age of 60, the same as for women. In order to do this we are looking over and above the savings already identified. It is pointless spending all this money on other projects which aren't giving local people the services they deserve. We want to see this funding pushed over into frontline services which is where people will really benefit from them."

He added:

"We have identified services that help the whole community. We want to complete the improved play areas for children as well as taking a big step forward by giving men over 60 a free bus pass. Improving our local environment has always been a Lib Dem priority and the extra money for tree maintenance, new bus shelters and modernised shopping parades will do that."

The council is currently looking to finalise its Budget for the forthcoming year. Under Liberal Democrat plans there will be further funding for play area refurbishment, bus shelter improvements, improved local shops, tree maintenance and concessionary bus fares for men over 60.