Senior Councillors weigh in on Saints-Asda debate (Northampton Liberal Democrats)

Northampton Liberal Democrats <info@northamptonlibdems.org.uk>

Senior Councillors weigh in on Saints-Asda debate

February 9, 2010 12:00 AM

The South Stand at Franklin's Gardens

Responding to comments by Conservative MP Brian Binley in last weekend's match-day programme that Lib Dem-run Northampton Borough Council is 'hell bent on doing all it can to hinder both The Saints and The Cobblers from fulfilling their ambitious plans for a successful future', Council Leader Brian Hoare (Lib Dem, Abington) said:

"As a longstanding season-ticket holder at the Saints, I want to see the Saints expand Franklin's Gardens, climb the Guinness Premiership and win the Heineken Cup.

"Equally, I want to see the Cobblers and the Steelbacks succeed in their league and cup competitions.

"Sadly, Mr Binley is intent on piggy-backing off the Saints' success, just weeks before the General Election.

"Scapegoating the Guildhall for the realities of planning law does his credibility and those of local councillors no good.

"I would agree that the Borough Council has made some bad calls in the past, but not on our watch.

"Since 2007, we've frozen parking charges and are putting the pride back in our town centre.

"As for Mr Binley's other complaints about yellow lines and one-way traffic in the town, again, I agree.

"But it's Conservatives in County Hall, not Liberal Democrats in the Guildhall, who are responsible for the woeful state of the county's roads.

"MPs and councillors have to work within the law. Just weeks after being wrapped on the wrist for his expenses, Mr Binley should be encouraging everyone, the Council included, to uphold the law."

Liberal Democrat Parliamentary Candidate for Northampton South and Deputy Leader of Northampton Borough Council also weighed in on the debate, accusing Mr Binley of 'cynical populist statements'.

To find out more, log onto Paul's website:

www.varnsverry.org.uk

ENDS