Lib Dems plans for Basildon ahead of May 2 elections

Back in December, a new waste scheme was introduced by Conservative administration which saw sacks replaced with wheelie bins, new recycling sacks introduced, and fortnightly collections.

Now, ahead of the May 2 elections the Lib Dems say they will work with residents on options to replace reusable recycling bags that “are not fit-for-purpose”.

They also pledge to bring a “new approach to local politics” and “will work with all parties to get the best for the area”.

Stewart Mott, who is standing to be a Liberal Democrat councillor in Castledon and Crouch, said: “It is clear from speaking to residents on the doorstep that it’s time for change in both the town hall and Westminster.

“Ahead of these local elections we’ve heard from residents angry over the botched waste collection changes and concerned at speculative applications for development on the green belt across Billericay and Wickford.

“It is clear the Conservatives have been taking voters for fools with broken promises to protect green spaces and maintain weekly bin collections.

“We are standing local champions you can trust to be honest with you on the realities on the council’s debt and it’s requirements set by the Government to deliver housing.”

The Lib Dems also say they will campaign for active travel improvements, with improved connections between Noak Bridge and Billericay.

The party has also pledged that decisions will be made with the aim of “advancing the borough to becoming a greener, fairer, and safer”.

The Lib Dems are also calling for all-out elections every four years, rather than councillors being elected in thirds.

Lib Dems believe changing this to every four years will “encourage long-term decision making from councillors, reduce the cost of elections, and reduce voter fatigue”.

The Echo will be publishing manifestos or election commitments for all political parties in the run-up to the May 2 election.