In November last year the Labour, Lib Dem, Independent and Green coalition in charge at Runnymede Council announced plans to divert funding secured for Chertsey, without prior discussion or consultation with residents. I continue to support the campaign by the Chertsey Conservative councillors to reverse this decision, especially given the fact both Addlestone and Egham have benefitted from multi-million pound council led investment, and this funding was due to be the first step towards Chertsey also receiving support for improvements. The petition remains open and is available here.
I am aware that several questions have been raised with the Council leaders regarding this decision, which unfortunately remain unanswered. I have therefore written formally to the joint leaders today requesting they reverse the decision and ensure the Council does not turn its back on promises to Chertsey residents. You can view this here below. I have also written to the Communities Minister responsible for the funding, and the formal agreement the Council signed with Government, regarding the formal process under which this funding was agreed, and the process the Council has undertaken when seeking to reallocate the investment.
It is vital that our councils work on behalf of all of our residents and ensure all our towns and villages receive the support they need. I sincerely hope the leadership and Runnymede reconsider their decision and at least have an open conversation with residents about local priorities.
