Lib Dems freeze council tax to help people in the South Lakes

Last night the Liberal Democrats on South Lakeland District Council voted to freeze the Council Tax for the coming year to help residents across the our area.

Speaking after yesterday's Budget decisions, Leader of the Council Brendan Jameson said:

"The Liberal Democrats are committed to keeping the Council Tax at its present level and there will be no increase in 2012/13. We will continue to deliver good local services and run a first rate council.

"Last night was the first time that our council meeting has been web cast, so local residents will have been able to see for themselves that the Conservatives refused to vote for a council tax freeze despite giving verbal assurances that they would support the freeze.

"For me this shows that the Conservatives are prepared to say one thing to local residents, but then do something completely different in the council chamber. With the webcasting of the meeting, residents can now see the Conservatives for who they are."

The Conservatives also proposed to scrap pay on exit at Westmorland Shopping Centre which would damage businesses in Kendal.

South Lakes MP Tim Farron commented: "I welcome the news that the Lib Dems on South Lakeland District Council have frozen council tax. With living costs rising and incomes under pressure, it is right that the council protects residents from an unwelcome council tax rise. I also welcome the council's decision to boost business and continue with the successful pay on exit scheme at the Westmorland Shopping Centre. Here in the South Lakes our economy is bucking the trend, its vital that we do everything we can to keep it that way."