Greens call for Council funding to be directed towards urgent repairs

Green Councillors are proposing the Council's new road building programme in the East End is cancelled and funding is redirected to provide resources to carry out essential repairs and maintenance of footpaths, pavements, roads, cycleways, schools and cultural venues across the city.

Along with many other councils across the country, Glasgow is faced with an increased number of potholes and funds are required to meet the increased demands on the council's road maintenance budget. Council funds are also needed to ensure schools, nurseries and cultural venues are wind and watertight.

Cllr Martha Wardrop stated, "The Council can cancel the building of the new road in the East End to release over £35m to meet the backlog of repairs and maintenance work. The contract to build this road known as the East End Regeneration Route has not been signed and it is still possible for the Council to stop this going ahead. Why build another stretch of roadway when the Council does not have the funds available to maintain its existing road network let alone additional capacity? It makes no sense to pursue this climate busting road-building programme in the East End that will ultimately increase the number of cars on the road."

Cllr Wardrop added, "Council funds are also required for essential repairs to ensure schools, nurseries and cultural venues are not left neglected. Investment is needed to improve each building's energy efficiency and make sure facilities are kept in good condition for locally based groups. Local cultural centres such as Langside Hall and Partick Burgh Hall play an increasingly important role in bringing local communities together. They offer a focal point for neighbourhood activities. Playgroups, study groups and special interest clubs such as scouts and guides, martial arts and yoga are popular activities that take place in these local centres within easy walking distance of home. When allocating its budget, the Council must make sure its facilities for community based activities receive the investment that they need."

Editor's Notes

1. Cllr Martha Wardrop - Tel: 07854 817 665

2. East End Regeneration Route - http://www.glasgow.gov.uk/en/Residents/Environment/Rivers/RiverClyde/Projects/ClydeGateway/EastEndRegen/

Kieran Wild - Glasgow and West of Scotland Green Party Communications

07840 863508

kieran@glasgowgreens.org