Message from Grimsby and Cleethorpes Liberal Democrat group leader, Councillor Nicola Aisthorpe.
North East Lincolnshire has been promised a substantial allocation of approximately £120 million for transportation improvements from Government. While the promise of such a sum may initially sound good, a closer examination seems to reveal a pattern of political manoeuvring and a lack of accountability that should concern residents.
First and foremost, the timing of this announcement is suspect.
Despite years of struggling with inadequate, under investment of transportation in our area, the Conservative Government’s sudden interest to invest in transportation improvements comes conveniently close to election season.
Furthermore, with the funds set to be received next year and the uncertainty surrounding a new government post-election, concerns are heightened about whether we will actually ever see this promised investment materialise. It's hard to ignore the possibility that these funds are nothing more than a thinly veiled attempt to buy votes.
It appears that the local Conservative leader has earmarked these apparent funds primarily for the development of a new transport hub and bus station in Grimsby – a project that has already been rejected by the Government's levelling up scheme in 2023.
The troubled history of the Grimsby bus station, including the costly £6m revamp in 2013 and subsequent failures under the previous Labour administration that included their chaotic crazy paving scheme, highlights the need for careful consideration and planning when it comes to infrastructure projects at North East Lincolnshire Council.
As we head to the polls, let's demand transparency and accountability. Our community deserves more than last minute handouts, promises and uncertainty. The Liberal Democrats stand for real change, effective governance and genuine investment in the well-being of our residents, not empty promises and political manoeuvring.
It's time to reject the status quo and embrace the Liberal Democrat vision for North East Lincolnshire that prioritises the needs of our community above politics. Let's make our voices heard and ensure that our taxpayer’s money is spent wisely for the benefit of all.
Together, we can demand better and build a brighter future for North East Lincolnshire.
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