LIBERAL DEMOCRATS CONDEMN CONSERVATIVE REJECTION OF FAIR INVESTMENT AND HOUSING ACTION
Liberal Democrat councillors have criticised the Conservative / Rochford Residents led administration after it voted against practical budget proposals at Rochford District Council designed to support local high streets and address the growing housing crisis across the district.
The Liberal Democrat proposals set out a balanced investment approach for town centres. Funding would have been spread across Rayleigh, Hockley, Hullbridge and Great Wakering instead of concentrating more than £500k in Rochford alone. The proposal remained financially responsible and deliverable within the existing capital programme .
Councillors also rejected a proposal to commission an independent study into direct council housebuilding. This work would have examined viable ways to house residents stuck on waiting lists or living in temporary accommodation without committing to immediate construction spending.
Liberal Democrat councillors warn the decision leaves many residents facing uncertainty. Local government reorganisation approaches fast. Without a clear housing plan, some residents risk placement far from family, support networks and employment.
The group also raised concern about the lack of a district wide strategy for high street investment. Concentrating funding in one town while others receive little support risks uneven economic recovery and missed opportunities for local businesses.
Liberal Democrat Leader Cllr James Newport said:
“Our budget proposals offered fairness, practical support for struggling high streets and a serious step toward tackling the housing pressures many residents face. The Conservative / Rochford District Resident administration chose to reject those ideas. Residents deserve balanced investment and a clear housing strategy, not uncertainty and neglect.”
The Liberal Democrats say they will continue pressing for fair investment across the district and real action to support residents who need secure housing.
