Local Transport Improvements at Risk Due To TfL Funding Dispute
Lib Dems warn measures like EV charging points and bike hangers could be scrapped
Cllr Gary Malcolm with Caroline Pidgeon AM
Opposition councillors on Ealing Council are warning that the ongoing dispute over funding between the government and Transport for London (TfL) could lead to some planned transport measures in the borough being scrapped.
A report presented to the Council's cabinet last Wednesday (13 July) raised the possibility that expected funding from TfL for 2,000 electric vehicle (EV) charging points, 100 bike hangers, walking schemes and improvements to road safety might not be provided. This would mean that many of these projects could be delayed or scrapped.
Gary Malcolm Liberal Democrat Leader of the Opposition, Ealing Council said, “Liberal Democrats in our local election manifesto campaigned for more schemes to help people walk, cycle, improve road safety and provide lots of charging points for electric vehicles in Ealing. The news last night that some schemes might be cancelled or at best delayed is devastating.”
Caroline Pidgeon, Liberal Democrat Assembly Member, said: "It is very disappointing that long term Liberal Democrat proposals to expand cycle hangers and electric vehicle charging points are to either be delayed or may not happen due to the funding arguments between the Tory government and the Labour Mayor of London. Liberal Democrats want to see Councils getting on with helping more people to walk and be more environmentally friendly."
The government is refusing to agree a long-term funding package for TfL until it implements a range of cost reductions and recently on extended emergency funding for a short period in a deal which expires this month.
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July 17, 2022