COUNCIL LACKS THE DRIVE TO CUT SPEEDING (Durham Liberal Democrats)

Durham Liberal Democrats <info@durhamlibdems.org.uk>

COUNCIL LACKS THE DRIVE TO CUT SPEEDING

September 30, 2009 12:00 AM

The Labour-run County Council has come under fire for missing the opportunity to make a real difference to road safety across the County.

At a full meeting of the Council today, Liberal Democrat Cllr Carol Woods submitted a motion calling for lower speed limits outside schools and in residential areas. The ruling Labour party refused to back the motion, choosing instead to water down its contents and shy away from firm commitments.

Carol Woods said, "It is very disappointing that, once again, the Council has refused to make a clear commitment to improving road safety. Road users are not interested in the Punch and Judy show of the Council chamber, they want us to work together on definitive action to help make Durham's roads safer. My motion today offered that opportunity and called for adequate funding to be provided. Unfortunately, Labour and the Conservatives have conspired to water it down to such an extent that it will do little more than maintain the status quo.

"This is a missed opportunity to make a real difference. This Council must do more to reduce the number and severity of traffic accidents but today's events show they lack the appetite to do so. The refusal to pass this motion without amendment shows a Labour party more interested in flexing its political muscle rather than putting the welfare of local people first."