Lib Dems' concern over capital budget

2.28.45pm BST (GMT +0100) Fri 8th Sep 2006

Liberal Democrat Councillors have expressed concern over potential delays to many capital projects in Norwich, which appear to have been caused by delays in the sale of land at Bowthorpe.

The Liberal Democrats had set initial plans for the Capital Budget before last May's elections. It was to have been funded by the sale of Council owned land at Bowthorpe for new housing. This would have yielded approximately £15 m over 3 years, with at least £3m in the first year.

The new Labour administration who took control in May have decided not to proceed with the sale but to review it and see whether they can place conditions on the sale which would result in more sustainable development

on the land. This review will not be complete until December.

Back in 2005, the Liberal Democrats undertook such a review and decided that it would be better not to impose conditions on the sale of the land which would mean it would be sold for less money. The Liberal Democrats took the view that the land should be sold for its full market value, so that the money could be used to finance community projects and improving energy efficiency in the homes of families in financial need.

Cllr Judith Lubbock said: 'The question is: Should the Council in effect subsidise private housing on the site to ensure higher energy efficiency and energy regeneration in these homes, or should the Government ensure this happens anyway by improving the Building Regulations to ensure it happens in all housing projects anyway?

It is a complex issue, but the Liberal Democrats are in favour of the latter. Higher environmental standards in Building Regulations has been party policy for some time. Liberal Democrat MPs and others have been pressing for it for years.

There is much debate about sustainability not just in terms of the environment but in terms of communities. Capital projects such as the new Skatepark at Eaton, which the Liberal Democrats initiated, are being severely delayed. But young people desperately need more opportunities for sport and leisure, and to feel part of a community.

The Council's job is to get the best deal for the people of Norwich, not to make up for shortcomings in Government policy.'

The Capital Budget will come before Council on September 26th. at 7.30pm in the City Hall Council Chamber. All members of the public are welcome to attend and hear the debate.

Related Links:

Lib Dem Housing Policy Paper.

Skateboarders supported by Lib Dem Councillors.