Lib Dems vow to ‘Fix Gloucestershire’ with manifesto launch

The Liberal Democrats have launched their local election campaign in Gloucestershire with a vow to end 20 years of Conservative rule in the county.

They are promising to improve core services, support the local economy, ensure roads are well maintained and safe, and that our most vulnerable children and adults are well cared for.

The Lib Dem manifesto, Let’s Fix Gloucestershire, makes a series of pledges to improve important local services should they take control of the county council.

Voters go to the polls on Thursday May 1 with the opportunity to elect 55 councillors across Gloucestershire.

The Conservatives currently have 26 councillors, the Lib Dems are the official opposition on 16, the Labour Party and Green Party have just four councillors each and there are two independents.

Councillor Lisa Spivey, leader of the Liberal Democrat county council group, said: “Liberal Democrats across Gloucestershire are already striving to make things better, fairer, greener and more inclusive for residents.

“Our network of MPs, councillors, members and activists work hard all year round in their local areas to ensure that common sense, liberal values are at the heart of decision making. 

“We have an historic opportunity to grow and enhance that offering at this year’s elections. 

“These are uncertain times with local government finances at breaking point and councils across the country facing existential challenges around delivering care in a broken system whilst also trying to break cycles of poverty and deprivation, tackle the climate and ecological emergencies, support economic growth and maintain our schools, roads and pavements.

“After 20 years of the Conservatives in Gloucestershire failing on so many of these critical issues, this manifesto sets out the Liberal Democrat vision to Fix Gloucestershire.”