Welsh Liberal Democrats “united in the hope that Newport can get better”

THE Welsh Liberal Democrats have said they are willing to listen to residents and exceed the potential of Newport City Council, if they are successful in the election.

The party has 26 candidates standing across Newport on Thursday, May 5.

Chair of the local group, Oliver Townsend, said the candidates are “united in the hope that Newport can get better”.

Mr Townsend, who is standing in the St Julians ward, said:

“We are focused on the big issues raised by residents during the campaign. That means dealing with fly-tipping and rubbish, tackling anti-social behaviour and crime, addressing inadequate housing planning, and prioritising the city centre – but there’s so much more we can do to make Newport better.

“We have clear values based on trusting communities, empowering people, and breaking down barriers. Those values show through everything we’ve put in the manifesto.”

He added:

“[It] doesn’t hide away from what makes us different as a party. Giving local people more influence, more say over what happens in their areas, and making it compulsory for our council to listen to them, shouldn’t be radical ideas – but they are.

“Our manifesto meets real people’s priorities. We can do things very differently. There’s so much potential for a council in Wales that is closer to its people, and involves them in as much as possible.

“When people in Newport look through our ideas, they will see a real alternative – a group of candidates united around the hope that Newport can get better. It just needs a better way forward.”

Here’s what the party is pledging in Newport.

Housing

Newport Liberal Democrats have pledged to create a new local Housing of Multiple Occupancy (HMO) policy with refreshed planning guidance.

Recycling 

The party is proposing a second household waste recycling centre and a trial of a free “bulky waste  collection” for people on low incomes.

Crime

To tackle crime, the party is promising; CCTV in crime hotspots, increased funding for Neighbourhood Watch, and allowing residents to lead local groups.

Homelessness 

By 2027, the Newport Liberal Democrats intend to end rough sleeping – if elected.

Transparency

The party is committed to taking action to “make Newport council more accountable and transparent”.

Oliver Townsend said:

“Our city has been led by Labour for decades, with a single break from 2008 – 2012. When you talk to residents, they are so disillusioned and let down by both big parties. With Labour, people feel taken for granted locally, and can see the state of the city. With the Conservatives, they just don’t trust them to deliver change. It gives us a real opportunity in this election to drive forward a new vision for Newport.”