LIBERAL Democrat Leader Ed Davey MP visited Solihull on Saturday, April 2 and pledged the local team would ‘clean up the Conservatives’ mess’ ahead of the local elections on May 5.
Mr Davey joined local Liberal Democrat candidates Laura McCarthy and Ade Adeyemo in a litter pick on Hobs Moat Road, and took aim at the new waste contract the Conservative-run Council signed off on that has come in over budget and has been passed on in a council tax rise.
A Lib Dem analysis also forecasts that some 4,354 households in Solihull could struggle to receive the £150 council tax rebate this month because they do not pay by direct debit and therefore may not automatically benefit from a reduction.
The party also lists the loss of Solihull’s A&E, maternity unit, ambulance station, and Minor Injuries Unit where people have been let down by the controlling group.
“It’s been great to be in Solihull with our fantastic Liberal Democrat candidates and the local team,” said Mr Davey.
“They’re campaigning hard on issues that matter to people here, keeping our streets clean and our roads safe.
“With the Greens in turmoil and Labour in reverse, it’s Solihull Liberal Democrats who can make up ground on the Conservatives and residents are recognising that.
“The Liberal Democrats will clean up the Conservatives’ mess and deliver real change for this area.”
Lib Dem candidate for Elmdon Ward, Councillor Laura McCarthy, said: “Residents have told us they simply cannot afford a council tax rise and I passed that message on to the council. It fell on deaf ears.
“The Conservatives aren’t listening to the people of Solihull and the overspend on the new waste contract is a case in point.
“They deserve better and that’s what Solihull Liberal Democrats are fighting for.”
Lib Dem candidate for Lyndon ward Ade Adeyamo added: “It’s been great being out with Ed and helping to litter pick in the area.
“As Lib Dems, it’s what we do for the whole community.
“And we will also make sure that we hold the Conservatives’ feet to the fire so we get money spent in places like Lyndon, Elmdon and Hobs Moat.
“A lot of money has been spent elsewhere in Solihull and these areas have been neglected for too long time and this is something the Lib Dems want to address.”
