The Labour Cabinet’s claims of transparency look increasingly threadbare as the parking review moves forward. The figures shared with Ward Councillors, and now to be presented to the public for consultation, do not reflect the 4% increase promised by Labour in its budget changes, but a rather larger 9%. Challenged by Cllr Chris Wells on this point during Cabinet, Cllr Rick Everitt stated: ‘We have made headroom in the budget for a 9% rise so we can consult the public with a choice.’
The 4% figures have not been part of any consultation to date; the reduction of the 9% rise to 4% was specifically stated in the budget debate as having been covered through the New Homes Bonus.
This hidden headroom makes space to pay for the promised free parking in Birchington, ‘which,’ says Chris Wells, ‘offends the equality duty forced on Councils by the last Labour government.’
According to government figures, the average weekly income in Birchington is £460; so voters in Newington (£390); Eastcliff (£380); Margate Central and Cliftonville West (£360); are all expected to pay extra in parking to fund their richer neighbours’ free parking time.
“It is clear to all that this extra free parking in Birchington is simply a tawdry arrangement by two independent members to prop up a minority Labour administration. It is interesting to note that Labour is making income- struggling Labour-held wards pay for their Cabinet posturing, not to mention non-driving elderly and disabled Birchington residents, by backing extra free parking for Birchington drivers and businesses. I wonder what businesses and shoppers in Margate and Ramsgate High streets will make of that? I hope they will make their feelings known in the forthcoming consultation.”
I see the anything for power doctrine of Labour is alive and kicking. Fancy sucking up to two former Tory councillors just so that Clive Hart and Thanet Labour can have their moment of glory. What price to their supporters one might well ask!
ReplyDelete