On 2nd April, Exeter Liberal Democrats launched their local election campaign and manifesto, called 'For a Community-Powered Council'.
Will Aczel, Lib Dem Parliamentary Candidate for Exeter, said:
"We think councils should be run with and for local people and their communities. This is because we believe people should have a right to their say over their area. Additionally, it improves cost effectiveness and generates ownership of any changes.
"Lib Dem councillors and campaigners are principled community representatives. We push the council to demonstrate proactive, inclusive, and meaningful listening, which informs what to propose in the first place. To help achieve this, the council should encourage community forums, neighbourhood plans, and transparently follow their own Consultation Charter.
"People tell me on their doorsteps they want to be heard and Labour have run Exeter for long enough. Labour haven't been consulting and engaging with people properly: whether it's their bins cuts, allotment fees hikes, or cuts to front-line Citizen's Advice Bureau services. Their centralised and secretive decision-making has wasted millions of the public purse. This comes at the expense of recycling, environmental health services, and investment in our communities.
"Lib Dems are fighting to give people a proper voice. We are contesting all wards and aim to gain seats."
Steve Lodge, Lib Dem Police and Crime Commissioner candidate for Devon and Cornwall, said:
"It was great see so many people at the launch, and to have the opportunity to address them as PCC candidate. My pledge is a return to proper community policing which fits perfectly with our Exeter campaign.
"The Conservatives have damaged our police force, which has been in special measures since 2022. The Lib Dem response to the mishandling of public services by the two major parties will be to deliver a fair deal to our communities, and the positive change we offer is long overdue."
Read the full manifesto at: exeterlibdems.org.uk/localwards/manifesto
“As a surfer and environmentalist, I find the government's weak and reckless approach to our environment outrageous."
Our fully costed plan shows how electing more Lib Dems to the council will make Exeter a better place to live.
We have secured a u-turn on Labour's inadequate allotment price hike consultation - and have a plan to lessen the council's financial burden on allotment holders.
