It’s the environment that matters say the Lib Dems

LIBERAL Democrat MP David Howarth visited Ely on Thursday to give his support to councillors fighting to take control of East Cambridgeshire District Council.

Mr Howarth, MP, for Cambridge joined Ely East Cllr Nigel Bell and a group of around 15 party supporters to spread the Liberal Democrat message in the city's Jubilee Gardens and Market Place with a drop of 300 election leaflets.

The visit came just four days after the party launched its manifesto locally, committing to more recycling and affordable housing and working towards making the district council carbon neutral.

The elections on Thursday, May 3 will see all 39 seats, including 17 held by the Liberal Democrats and 16 held by the Tories, come up for election.

With such a close balance of power the vote will be crucial for both parties possibly leaving either one in a position to take control.

Mr Howarth said during his visit to the city: "We have been getting positive polls and locally the councilors have an excellent record.

"People are very interested in local issues and that's the way it should be.

"We have had totally positive feedback. This will be a crucial election and the Liberal Democrats are the only party which can unite the area."

Group leader, Cllr Gareth Wilson says: "We are pleased to announce that we achieved our six key manifesto pledges from four years ago, including a new car park for Ely and preserving the Jubilee Gardens."

Cllr. Ian Allen, chair of transport and environment committee added: "We will continue to fight to protect historic green space from development. We need to replace the Paradise Centre, which is rapidly approaching its end and promote leisure provision through the district.