The local Green Party has unveiled its plans to create a fairer, greener and cleaner Reading ahead of the local elections this year.
As usual, the Green Party is a standing candidates in every ward across the town.
Priorities in their local manifesto include:
- financial support for those in need
- more affordable housing
- urgent support for home insulating
- doubling the number of trees
- tackling rubbish problems, potholes and getting doorstep glass recycling
The Green Party are currently the main opposition party on Reading Borough Council, with more councillors than both the Conservatives and Lib Dems. They have councillors in Park, Redlands and Katesgrove wards.
The make-up of the council is 32 Labour, seven Green, five Conservative, three Lib Dem and one independent.
Councillor Dave McElroy (Green Party, Redlands Ward) said: “Under the Labour-run council our area is blighted by potholes, overflowing bins, antisocial behaviour, congestion and air pollution. Carbon reductions have stalled, people can’t find a dentist and we don’t have enough affordable housing. Greens have campaigned tirelessly with residents to tackle these issues.
“Over the last year Greens have had success tackling bin problems, poor quality privately rented accommodation and road safety issues.
“There are many wards in Reading where the Green Party stands a good chance of winning this year, but the results are going to be close, including here in Redlands.
“Labour have a massive majority on the council and it’s highly likely that they will run the council whatever happens. The current balance is 32 Labour councillors, seven Green councillors, five Conservatives, three Lib Dems and one independent.
“Voting Green will mean you get not only a hard-working representative on the council making a difference all year round, but keep a strong main opposition party holding Labour to account for their actions.
“Vote Green for a fairer, greener and cleaner town.”
You can view the full manifesto on the local Green Party website.