Trafford Labour Group

Threat to Cut Home to School Transport for Children

barryb@barryb.demon.co.uk — Sun, 20 Jul 2008 22:12:28 +0100

The Conservatives who control Trafford Council are consulting on proposals that, if adopted, could mean that hundreds of Trafford school children will no longer qualify free home to school transport.
The proposals would hit particularly hard those parents who have decided to send their children to faith schools.

Labour says Trafford Council should do more to support Post Offices

barryb@barryb.demon.co.uk — Sat, 15 Dec 2007 20:58:11 +0000

Trafford Labour Group welcomes the Government's commitment to invest £1.7 billion to support Post Offices. We believe that some of that money should be used to maintain the Post Offices at Brook Lane (Timperley) and in Dunham Village.

However, we also believe that Trafford Council should be making more effort to support these and other Post Offices in the Borough.

Councillor Barry Brotherton said: "For example, when Labour controlled the Council we started the scheme that allowed people to pay Council Tax, etc via the Post Office Card. This means that £10 million per year of payments to the Council now go through Post Offices. We also had a scheme to give grants to help small business. The Conservatives have now scrapped that budget. The Council should re-think that decision and give these essential businesses some practical help"

Councillor Jane Baugh said: "The Council is should be looking at what services it can provide via the Post Offices. It would be very useful, especially in the more rural areas, if people could go to their local Post Office to access Trafford Direct, the library, or other Council services. There are about 48 Post Offices in Trafford, and we should be thinking of how we could work with them to our mutual benefit; helping the Council, helping local residents and supporting the Post Offices.”

Labour says "No!" to fortnightly refuse collection

barryb@barryb.demon.co.uk — Wed, 5 Dec 2007 12:47:19 +0000

The Tories agreed at their Executive meeting on 26 November to change the waste collection system in Trafford and to consult on two options. The options are :-

OPTION 1
Fortnightly refuse collection from all households using the current capacity refuse wheelie bins. Other bins would be provided to recycle food waste, plastic, cardboard, glass, cans etc.

OPTION 2
Weekly refuse collection from all households, with the introduction of smaller capacity bins for refuse. The existing 240 litre bin would then be used to recycle plastic, glass, cans etc.

Cllr David Acton said, ''The Labour Group fully supports proposals to increase recycling. We recognise that we cannot continue to put our waste in the ground at the rate we are doing at present. For environmental and economic reasons, we owe it to our children to do more.
However, we are opposed to the Tories proposal to include within the consultation any suggestion of a fortnightly collection of household waste. We believe that the public are not prepared to accept fortnightly collections and that there has been massive opposition to it in other Authorities where it has been introduced.
Our strong view therefore is that any consultation on recycling should not include the fortnightly collection option. This would leave only Option 2. Whilst this would go some way to promoting recycling, it is a “one size fits all” scheme. It makes no allowance for larger families, those with babies or with medical conditions. We think that there are other ways that we can achieve more recycling. For example, the Government has recently announced that it will consider pilot schemes in which residents can have a Council Tax rebate for recycling. Let’s open up the debate, let’s win hearts and minds for change, but let’s not fall into the trap of fortnightly collections of our household waste. There are better ways of achieving our objectives of recycling more of our waste.
We therefore call on the Tories in Trafford to drop their fortnightly waste collection option, widen the consultation, and open up the debate to more innovative suggestions on how we can all move forward together in achieving our objective to increase recycling in our Borough and do our bit for the planet''.

Budget Monitoring - November 2007 - More Cuts

barryb@barryb.demon.co.uk — Sun, 2 Dec 2007 12:51:23 +0000

Labour Councillors are concerned that a recent budget monitoring report which was presented to the Public Executive indicated that further cuts in the Social Services provision is being proposed.

These cuts in Services include:-

Withdrawal from North Trafford Combined Care Centre. Freeze on expenditure on telecare equipment. [ which could mean vital equipment for elderly people like pendant alarms ] Staffing restructure to save £250,000 [ which would appear to point to a significant staff reduction ] Maintain more people within the community [ which could mean further closure of elderly peoples homes ] Residential and nursing care potential savings of £160,000 to be made.

Cllr Acton said, “I am extremely concerned about these potential cuts to vital services which could have a devastating effect for older and vulnerable people. I am particularly concerned as these cuts in services would come on top of previous cuts that have already been made by the Conservatives, whereby they have, in recent times, closed five elderly peoples homes, closed Day Care Centres, increased charges for services to older people, and changed the criteria which makes it much harder for elderly people to access services like home helps etc. I feel really worried and concerned about how the Council's services to older people are being continuingly eroded by the Tories. I believe if these further cuts in service go ahead it will impact adversely and significantly on our elderly people and others living in Trafford''.

Cuts in Road Safety Schemes

barryb@barryb.demon.co.uk — Sat, 1 Dec 2007 23:02:18 +0000

Trafford Council's road safety programme is in disarray, since the Conservatives took control of Trafford Council three years ago traffic calming schemes have become virtually non-existent. A consequence of this is that its looks unlikely that Trafford will be able to meet its casualty reduction figures for serious accidents.
To make matters worse what few schemes are going forward are now running at least a full year behind schedule. And in attempt to make up for years of cuts officers are now considering diverting all resources towards the most serious accident black spots, but to manage this would mean scrapping virtually all other parts of the programme meaning that those residential areas that have been waiting years for a traffic calming scheme may never see it under the Conservatives.
Labour Group spokesperson for Technical services Councillor Stephen Adshead said ‘this is disgrace and an indictment of how Trafford Conservatives are running the Council’
He went on to say that ‘under Labour traffic calming and accident reduction measures were a top priority, it’s unfortunate that Trafford Conservatives simply don’t understand the long term consequences of cutting this vital service’ adding that ‘at the end of the day once again its local residents that have ended up suffering as a result of Conservative neglect’.

Labour fears for the future of Community Festivals and Events

barryb@barryb.demon.co.uk — Sat, 1 Dec 2007 21:40:00 +0000

Trafford’s ruling Conservative Group is to review the funding arrangements for large scale community events like annual festivals and carnivals. It has just published a report that seeks to make such events self financing and want’s to implement the proposals next year. The opposition Labour Group fears this could spell the end for many of these community events.
Speaking at a recent Council meeting where this matter was discussed Councillor Steve Adshead said ’many of these annual festivals help raise money for local charities and are organised by just a handful of helpers’ he went on to say ‘it is simply not possible for them to be self financing’.
He added ‘Many of these festivals have been going on for generations now and are part of the heritage of our local communities, their loss would be an indictment of the contempt in which Trafford Tories currently hold local people’.
Included in the report is a proposal to create a new highly paid full time post, the Labour Group did not support this and believes there is already enough expertise in the Council and that the money should be used instead to help those community groups struggling to help put on events.

Labour Councillors call for a Council commitment to Lostock Youth Centre

barryb@barryb.demon.co.uk — Sun, 14 Oct 2007 21:59:20 +0100

Trafford Labour Councillors have asked the Conservative ruling group to give a firm commitment to the future of Lostock Youth Centre. A motion has been put to the full council congratulating all staff for their commitment to young people in the Lostock area. However the condition of the building has the Labour Councillors greatly concerned. Councillor Laurence Walsh says “The Lostock Youth Centre is only open two nights a week yet attracts a great many young people. The young people together with the staff are looking at ways they can attract funding themselves to improve the building. That kind of initiative should be rewarded”.
Sadly at the full Council Meeting on 10 October 2007 the Conservative majority on the Council refused to support this motion.

Trafford Labour Councillors launch campaign to improve rail services.

barryb@barryb.demon.co.uk — Sun, 14 Oct 2007 21:48:32 +0100

Trafford’s Labour councillors have launched a campaign to persuade train operators to boost the service provided to stations in Stretford and Urmston.
Currently Trafford Park, Humphrey Park and Chassen Road stations have a much reduced off-peak service compared to other stations along the line and have no Sunday service.
Gorse Hill councillor Mike Cordingley stated “This has been a constant source of frustration for residents for years. In these days of flexible work patterns and the need for efficient public transport, it’s ridiculous to see these trains trundling through and not stopping. If passengers are lucky enough to get a train they’re likely to find at Manchester that they’ll have to wait two hours to get a train home.”
Trafford Labour group has submitted a resolution to council to be debated on Wednesday 10th October. Mike Cordingley explained “We’re seeking support from all quarters, when we’ve previously raised it with Northern Rail, they’ve explained that pressures on the line from higher priority services reduces their room for manoeuvre. We’ve got to make this a priority”. Continuing, Mike Cordingley said “We’ve also highlighted that Trafford Park Station really needs a boost to its profile; it’s a Stretford station, yet there are no signs to it. And pedestrians can’t easily get to Trafford Park from the station. We’re persuaded that a change to it’s name would be sensible; a recent event suggested that renaming it Stretford Marina had good support but we would like to consult more extensively.”

Trafford Tories cut number of Green Flag status parks

barryb@barryb.demon.co.uk — Sun, 14 Oct 2007 21:13:34 +0100

Labour councillors are calling on the Conservatives to” think again” about removing Green Flag status from parks in the Borough of Trafford. Recent information indicates that Trafford need only submit 2 parks for Green Flags Status in order to meet the requirements of the Comprehensive Performance Assessment.
Cllr Jane Baugh Opposition spokesperson for Parks and Countryside said “Our concern relates to the fact that the Council appears to be only making the submissions to the Green Flag because they are required for the CPA, and not because they believe in entering parks for Green Flag Status.
We strongly believe that it has been a backward and detrimental step for the environment of the Borough to reduce the number of Green Flag entries from 14 to 6 this year and the possibility of being reduced to only 2 in the coming year is disturbing news.
When in control of the Council we initiated and fully supported the Green Flag Awards Scheme which is the only National Standard for parks and greenspaces in England and Wales. The Green Flag Scheme is an important way of encouraging friends and parks users and staff to all achieve the same high Environmental Standards creating a benchmark of excellence in recreational areas.
We also know that winning a Green Flag award brings excellent publicity to our parks and both the media and the public are increasingly aware that a site flying a Green Flag is a high quality green space.
The introduction of Gold Star Awards to replace green flag awards without any consultation with the Friends groups was an insult to the Friends groups and has resulted in low morale for all those groups and staff involved with the awards. Gold star awards are not recognised National Awards.

Trafford Tories Increase Car Parking Charges

barryb@barryb.demon.co.uk — Sun, 14 Oct 2007 18:42:53 +0100

When the Conservatives took control of Trafford Council in May 2004 they promised to reduce car parking charges and, indeed, they did make some small reductions.
However they have now, in September 2007, done a complete U-turn and increased many of these charges by up to 100%.

Labour accuses Trafford Tories of complacency about litter

barryb@barryb.demon.co.uk — Sat, 25 Aug 2007 23:08:03 +0100

Trafford’s Labour Group have condemned the ruling Conservatives of belittling residents’ concerns over street cleaning and playing down a critical survey from ENCAMS, the national watchdog. The report scores Trafford’s litter and detritus clearance as unsatisfactory overall and highlights the litter around smaller shopping areas as especially poor. The council issued a press release last week leading on the small amount of fly tipping or fly posting that the inspectors found. Gorse Hill councillor Laurence Walsh stated “Residents have been telling me for many months of their frustration at the state of the streets and pavements particularly around the shops. I have raised it at full council and the Conservatives have belittled these concerns. Now that an official watchdog has found the same problems are widespread throughout the borough I would have hoped that they would at last take cleaning our streets seriously but judging by their press release it doesn’t look like it.” Labour’s spokesperson for Stretford, Tom Ross said “The council is paying to train four of its staff to undertake their own surveys. The priority should be cleaning the streets and getting rid of the graffiti in the subways that seems to have been there for months. We don’t need to have our own inspectors with clipboards; residents know where needs to be cleaned.” Notes ENCAMS (formerly the Keep Britain Tidy Group) has been commissioned to carry out Surveys of Local Authority areas on behalf of DEFRA Its 2006/7 reports were released on 2nd August 2007 and Trafford’s is available here

Trafford Council’s press release is available here

Contacts:- Cllr. Mike Cordingley Tel: 865 9228 7 August 2007

Trafford Councillor attacks Peel Holdings "Toll Tax"

barryb@barryb.demon.co.uk — Sat, 25 Aug 2007 22:51:19 +0100

Trafford and Partington Councillor John Smith has hit out at the double standards of Peel Holdings, owners of the Trafford Centre and Manchester Ship Canal. Cllr. Smith says: “Over recent weeks Peel Holdings have been running a prominent public campaign against the possibility of a Congestion Charge. People in Partington, whatever their own views about the Congestion Charge, find this a bit hypocritical of Peel Holdings. Peel are already operating their own toll tax on every driver who wants to enter or leave the Borough via their Toll Bridge at Warburton. This charge hits the pockets of Partington people particularly hard as this is one of the major access routes to the area. It’s time Peel Holdings stood by their own principles and stopped imposing their private Toll Tax on local people.”

Trafford Tories reject critical Ombudsman Report for second time

barryb@barryb.demon.co.uk — Sat, 25 Aug 2007 22:40:06 +0100

The Conservative majority on Trafford Council has again refused to accept in full the Local Government Ombudsman’s decision that Trafford Council was guilty of maladministration in dealing with a lady with serious mental health problems. The Conservative Executive on 23 July said the Council would place a charge on this lady’s home to recover the grant paid to her. At the Meeting of Trafford Council on 25 July 2007, the Labour Group moved that the Council should, in accordance with the Ombudsman’s findings, waive completely the repayment of this lady’s grant. Cllr Barry Brotherton pointed out that it was very exceptional for the Ombudsman to issue a second critical report and to condemn the Council’s actions in such strong terms. He said: “It is just not good enough for the Executive to delay their demand for repayment of the grant by placing a charge on this lady’s house. That just means that the Council would get the money back when the house is sold. We have the unedifying image of the council hovering like a vulture to get its reward. In fact this lady’s health is such that it is quite likely that she may have to sell her home and go into residential nursing care in the near future. Repaying this grant would seriously prejudice her ability to finance her choice of personal care”. Supporting him, Cllr Judith Lloyd said: “The Council has treated this vulnerable lady appallingly. The Ombudsman found that the Council had failed to advise this lady about the change to the grant rules with the result that she has been put at a significant financial disadvantage. The important person in all this is this lady and the Council should accept the Ombudsman’s decision in full to protect to protect her legitimate interests.”

Trafford Council to cut support for people in need

barryb@barryb.demon.co.uk — Wed, 11 Jul 2007 16:44:50 +0100

The Conservative Executive of Trafford Council has announced that, in order to save £300,000, it intends to reduce the number of people in need who will qualify for care services. In future, it is proposed that only those with substantial or critical need will get help. The Labour Opposition is strongly opposed to these cuts; especially as they follow recent closures of Elderly Persons Homes and large increases in social service charges by the Council. Although the Council has to consult on these proposals, the fact is that these “savings” were already incorporated in the Council Budget which was set last February. Councillor David Acton said: “Trafford already spends significantly less on older people than similar Local Authorities and the increase in the Council’s budget for these services was only 1.7% - much less than inflation. The Council is encouraging more elderly people to stay in their own homes but now they are proposing to remove the help that many of these residents rely on to enable them to live independent lives. Not only is this very unfair but it is short-sighted as it will only lead, in the long term, to more people going into residential care.” The Labour Group has submitted a resolution opposing these cuts for discussion at the Council Meeting on 28 June 2007.

Tories close fifth Elderly Persons Home in three years.

barryb@barryb.demon.co.uk — Wed, 11 Jul 2007 16:35:25 +0100

Trafford Council are to consult with residents, relatives and staff about closing Atkinson Court EPH in Ashton-on-Mersey. Labour Councillor Joanne Bennett, Opposition Spokesperson for Adult Social Care & Health, said:- “We recognise that more elderly people are being enabled to remain in their own homes. However we are worried that the Council is closing its own homes at too fast a rate; this is the fifth home the Council will have closed in less than 3 years. The proposed closure will inevitably be distressing for the residents and the staff. Although the Council has said that it will consult, evidence from previous closures indicates that there is unlikely to be a change of mind, whatever the views of those most affected. This policy of closing homes does not give sufficient recognition to the fact that we have an ageing population and that people are living longer. Unfortunately many people will not be able to live at home until the end of their days; there still will be a significant need for residential care. Nor does the policy have any regard to possible closures of privately –owned care homes. We believe that the Council has a duty to ensure that elderly people and their relatives continue to have a wide choice of care options. Cost savings are all very well - but not by limiting the range of care the Council can offer vulnerable, elderly people

Labour Group slams proposed cuts in Welfare Rights Service

barryb@barryb.demon.co.uk — Tue, 10 Jul 2007 22:09:27 +0100

Labour councillors are concerned about the planned cuts to the Welfare Rights service to save £113,000 per year.
This service is a lifeline to the most vulnerable in our communities and the loss of any staff will have a devastating effect on this invaluable service.

Paul Goggins M.P. slams Tory cuts in funding to Mersey Valley.

barryb@barryb.demon.co.uk — Thu, 10 May 2007 11:07:36 +0100

PAUL GOGGINS MP opposes Tory Trafford Council’s decision to drastically reduce its annual funding to the Mersey Valley Joint Funding Committee. The Committee helps to manage and maintain the environment covering the river valley. However, due to the £60,000 pa reduction in funding, the Mersey Estate Team, which helps to safeguard the area, may be forced to scale back its activities. Paul Goggins said “I am completely against the decision by Trafford Council to reduce funding to the Mersey Valley Joint Working Committee. The outcome of these cuts may have significant social and environmental implications. Precious green spaces, such as Mersey Valley, encourage individuals and communities to value and enjoy their surroundings. This is a short sighted decision which places the future of this rural setting in jeopardy”.

Cllr. Jane Baugh slams Trafford Tories’ Cuts to Parks and Libraries

barryb@barryb.demon.co.uk — Wed, 9 May 2007 20:05:52 +0100

Tory Executive Member announces at a Friends’ Forum that only 6 parks would be supported for a Green Flag in the future. This was a devastating blow to all those Friends Groups who have given up their free time and brought in outside funding to improve their parks.

Labour slams Tory decision to make residents pay Council Tax earlier.

barryb@barryb.demon.co.uk — Wed, 9 May 2007 18:58:03 +0100

Proposals to change the date that Council Tax monthly payments will hit ordinary working people hard Labour councillors on Trafford claim. At present those paying by 10 monthly instalments have the money taken out on the 15th of the month. In this year’s Budget Tory councillors are proposing to change this to the 1st day of the month. This exercise is estimated to save £12,000 a month for the Council.

Trafford Tories set Council Budget

barryb@barryb.demon.co.uk — Sat, 24 Feb 2007 00:21:25 +0000

On 21 February 2007, the controlling Conservative Group on Trafford Council set their Budget for 2007/8.

This included £5.4 million cuts, with reductions in street sweeping, parks and more closures of Elderly Persons' Homes.

In addition they plan to make residents pay their monthly Council Tax bills on the 1st of each month rather than on the 15th of the month.

They also intend to raise Social Service charges for about 1,500 of the most vulnerable people, with increases of up to £11 per week. They have not consulted on this and the Labour Group believe that consultation is a legal requirement.

Trafford Tories Close Workplace Nursery

barryb@barryb.demon.co.uk — Sat, 6 Jan 2007 22:46:51 +0000

Just before Christmas 2006, the Conservatives who control Trafford Council announced that they intend to close the workplace nursery provided for Council staff.

Trafford Tories Cut the Library Service

barryb@barryb.demon.co.uk — Tue, 7 Nov 2006 16:57:02 +0000

The Conservatives who control Trafford Council have announced serious cuts in the provision of library services in the Borough. One library is to close, opening hours at seven others are to be reduced and the School Library Service is to be discontinued.

Labour condemns street cleaning standards

barryb@barryb.demon.co.uk — Fri, 3 Nov 2006 14:45:06 +0000

Labour Councillors in Trafford have condemned the falling standards of street cleaning, especially in the north of the Borough.

Trafford Tories want to sell off part of Newton Park

barryb@barryb.demon.co.uk — Thu, 2 Nov 2006 00:17:27 +0000

Newton Park and the house Watling Gate were left to local people in the will of Charles Newton for public use. Watling Gate is Grade II Listed Building.
Now the Tories who control Trafford Council want to sell off Watling Gate and some of the surrounding park land to a private company for commercial use.
Local people are appalled by this but the Council seems determined to go ahead,
When Labour was in control of the Council we refused to sell park land, although we had offers from developers. Labour supports local residents who are campaigning against this sale.

Trafford Tories Spend £10,000 on two "Away Day"

barryb@barryb.demon.co.uk — Wed, 11 Oct 2006 22:26:33 +0100

The Conservative Council in Trafford has spent £10,700 on two "Away Days" for senior Tory Councillor and Council Managers.
They first spent a day and a half at a luxury hotel in the Lake District and then another group spent another day and a half at another 4-star hotel in the posh suburb of Hale Barns.
These two expensive outings were to consider how to maintain council services on a tight budget!

Trafford Tories to Close Another Day Care Centre

barryb@barryb.demon.co.uk — Wed, 11 Oct 2006 21:54:39 +0100

The Conservative Council in Trafford is to close Northlea Day Care Centre in Sale Moor. This Centre has been catering for 80 to 100 users every week.
Labour wants proper consultation with users about the future of this Centre.

Trafford Tories refuse to support listing of Town Hall

barryb@barryb.demon.co.uk — Wed, 4 Oct 2006 14:58:36 +0100

Trafford's Labour Councillors are disgusted that the Tory Council has refused to support the listing of Trafford Town Hall.

Labour welcomes new Government money for Children

barryb@barryb.demon.co.uk — Fri, 8 Sep 2006 00:05:23 +0100

The Labour Government has given Trafford Council grants of over £5 million spread over 2 years to create eight Children's Centres in the Borough.

Trafford Council Charges for Motorcycle Nuisance Hotline

barryb@barryb.demon.co.uk — Sat, 19 Aug 2006 22:38:54 +0100

Trafford's Conservative Council has introduced a phone Hotline to enable residents to report incidents of motocycle nuisance.
However not only does this cost up to 8p per minute to call but all it actually does is connect the caller to an answering machine,

Labour wants £17m invested in school where it is most needed.

barryb@barryb.demon.co.uk — Fri, 11 Aug 2006 13:27:10 +0100

As part of its Building Schools for the Future programme, the Government has announced that Trafford will be awarded a Pathfinder school.
The Tories have chosen to rebuild St. Ambrose College at a cost of £17m. Labour Councillors believe that deprivation and others factors in addition to building condition should have been taken into account when choosing the school to be re-built.

Don't Lose Your Vote!

barryb@barryb.demon.co.uk — Sun, 6 Aug 2006 20:48:25 +0100

New legislation brought in by the Government has been welcomed by Trafford’s Labour councillors. The Electoral Administration Act, which became law this month, will require councils to call on people who do not return their electoral registration forms.

Labour Councillors support Moss View Primary School Parents.

barryb@barryb.demon.co.uk — Mon, 17 Jul 2006 21:29:06 +0100

Trafford's Conservative Council recently announced plans to close Moss View Primary School in Partington.

Partington Labour Councillor Graham Platt announced that Labour had had asked the Conservatives to delay any decision to close the school and to consult fully with parents and other stakeholders. Unfortunately the Tories refused to listen.

Labour will do all it can to support the school through this difficult time.

Is it a Deal or No Deal?

barryb@barryb.demon.co.uk — Mon, 17 Jul 2006 17:12:01 +0100

Trafford Labour Councillors remain concerned about the potential initiated in secret by the leadership of the Conservative Group.
We have asked several questions that we believe the people of Trafford want answering.

Council agrees Unitary Development Plan - then ignores it!

barryb@barryb.demon.co.uk — Tue, 20 Jun 2006 22:16:40 +0100

After over two years of consultation and amendment, Trafford Council is finally to agree its Unitary Development Plan (UDP). This is supposed to set out the Council’s proposals for how land is to be used and developed over the next 15 to 20 years.

However the Labour Opposition Councillors now claim that the plans to sell off the present Town Hall on Talbot Road (Stretford) and build a new one on Trafford Quays in Trafford Park are in direct contradiction of the Council’s own UDP.

Tory Sale of the Century - Trafford Town Hall

barryb@barryb.demon.co.uk — Sun, 21 May 2006 18:11:03 +0100

After two years of Tory control in Trafford where, in that time, they have closed 6 elderly Peoples Establishments a Youth Club and Stretford Public Hall community room, they now plan to sell off Trafford Town Hall on Talbot Road, Stretford.

Cllr David Acton, Leader of Trafford Labour Group said, '' The Tories have set about, with a vengeance, to sell off our essential service establishments. They now propose to sell off an important part of our Heritage here in Trafford. Their latest proposed sale of the century is the Peoples’ Historic Landmark building, Trafford Town Hall. The added worry is what will the Tories flog off next?

See our Press Release

Press Release about Tory plans to sell Trafford Town Hall

barryb@barryb.demon.co.uk — Wed, 10 May 2006 16:10:58 +0100

Labour's initial reaction to the shock announcement that the Tory Group controlling Trafford Council want to sell off the present Town Hall and commercially develop the site . A new Town Hall would be built in Trafford Park.

Trafford Local Elections Results 4 May 2006

barryb@barryb.demon.co.uk — Mon, 8 May 2006 20:47:33 +0100

In the local elections held on 4th May 2006, Labour held all the seats it was defending with increased majorities and came within 25 votes of gaining a seat from the Conservatives. The Conservatives lost a seat to the Liberal Democrats.

Trafford Labour Manifesto 2006

Mon, 24 Apr 2006 22:05:34 +0100

You can download Trafford Labour Party's 2006 Manifesto as an Adobe Acrobat pdf file.

Number of Children taking 11-plus Exam in Trafford falls

Mon, 10 Apr 2006 17:01:05 +0100

Last year the Tory Council in Trafford changed the 11-plus exam system so that children sat the test on a Saturday morning in on eof several large schools. Previously children had always taken the test in their own Primary School.
Figures just released confirm the belief of the Labour Group that the changes would lead to fewer children taking the exam.

Labour Government announces massive funding for Old Trafford area.

Tue, 7 Mar 2006 23:39:47 +0100

The Government is to provide about £4 million to make Old Trafford a Cleaner, Greener and Safer place to live.

Labour's alternative priorities for Trafford Council's 2006/7 Budget

Thu, 23 Feb 2006 22:17:53 +0100

At the Council Budget Meeting on 22 February 2006, the Labour Opposition Group set out its alternative priorities for the budget.

Labour calls for the re-introduction of free swimming for people over 60 and those with disabilities.

Thu, 23 Feb 2006 22:10:16 +0100

At the Budget Meeting of Trafford Council on 22 February 2006, Laobur Councillor Jane Baugh moved that the Council re-introduce free swimming for those over 60 and people with disabilities.

Labour calls on Trafford Council to combat Domestic Abuse

Thu, 23 Feb 2006 22:03:54 +0100

Labour Councillor Bernice Garlick moved that £50,000 be set aside in the Council's 2006/7 budget to assist Trafford Women's Aid.

Labour's view on the Tory Council's Budget for 2006/7

Thu, 23 Feb 2006 21:57:02 +0100

Trafford Labour Group are appalled at the cuts being made in this year's Council budget.

Back in time with proposals for new Urmston Library

Sat, 18 Feb 2006 15:59:33 +0100

The re-development of Urmston Town Centre will now have the new Library on the first floor, above a supermarket, rather than on the ground floor as originally planned. Labour is concerned about the reduced access for older people and those with disabilities.

Tories break tradition of non-political Mayoralty

Thu, 16 Feb 2006 00:13:40 +0100

Trafford Tories are using their large majority to break the tradition of the last 20 years and claim two Conservative Mayors in consecutive years.

Labour welcomes Professor Tinston's report on the provision of NHS services in Trafford

Fri, 3 Feb 2006 19:28:32 +0100

Trafford Labour Group Councillor David Acton welcomed the report prepared by Professor Tinston.This will guarantee the continuation of services at Altrincham Hospital and is in line with the Labour resolution that was unanimously supported at Council in December 2005.

Labour welcomes free travel for over 60s and people with disabilities

Mon, 30 Jan 2006 14:09:23 +0100

Trafford Labour Group welcomes the announcement by Gtr. Manchester Passenger Transport Authority that, starting in April 2006, they will introduce free travel after 9-30 am on local buses, trains and the Metrolink for those over 60 and for people with disabilities.

Scrooge is alive and well and living in Tory Trafford

Tue, 17 Jan 2006 21:11:14 +0100

Trafford Labour Group attacks the latest Tory Council charges affecting the over-60s.

The Real Face of Cameron's Conservative Party in Trafford

Fri, 6 Jan 2006 19:48:30 +0100

The actions of the Conservative Party on Trafford Council, where they have closed day care centres and Elderly Persons Homes and introduced increased charges for Home Helps etc. show the real face of the Tories behind all David Cameron's empty phrases.

Council supports Labour's motion on Altrincham Hospital

Tue, 27 Dec 2005 23:33:09 +0100

At the full meeting of Trafford Council on 21 December 2005, councillors from all Parties supported the Labour Group motion concerning the possible closure of Altrincham Hospital.

Press Release is attached.

Tories Slash Youth Provision in Trafford

Sat, 3 Dec 2005 15:46:52 +0100

Trafford Labour councillors condemn the reductions that the Tory-controlled Coiuncil has made in its provision for young people.

Trafford Labour Group wants good health care in Altrincham

Thu, 17 Nov 2005 21:28:25 +0100

Following the announcement of the possible closure of Altrincham Hospital, Trafford Labour Group will continue to campaign for good, modern health facilities in that area.

Press Release about Labour's opposition to the latest cuts by Trafford's Conservative Council.

Wed, 12 Oct 2005 15:28:06 +0100

At the Council Meeting on 12 October 2005 Labour again attacked the Conservative proposals to close some Day Care Centres.

Cllr. Jane Baugh talks about the new licensing laws

Mon, 3 Oct 2005 23:33:12 +0100

Councillor Jane Baugh talks about some of the problems of the new licensing laws.

Trafford Tories failing Broomwood Youth Centre

Tue, 30 Aug 2005 21:23:45 +0100

The Tories appear to be reneging on the Council commitment to refurbish and renew Broomwood Youth Centre.

Video of Trafford Town Hall

Tue, 16 Aug 2005 23:07:04 +0100

This is just a trial with video (and sound) from a mobile phone. You will need Quick Time player to play the video. You can download a free version from www.apple.com/quicktime/
You can also use the free RealTime player. This may ask you to download an extra plugin to play this type of file.

Talking about Altrincham Ice rink

Mon, 15 Aug 2005 21:16:09 +0100

The Tory Council has just announced a "temporary" ice rink in Altrincham. This podcast explains the background to the delays to building a proper permanent rink since the Tories took control of Trafford Council.

New Licensing Laws

Sat, 13 Aug 2005 20:35:01 +0100

Trafford Councillor Jane Baugh says that the Government should reconsider the effects of the new licensing laws.

When, if ever, will Altrincham get a new permanent ice rink?

Sat, 6 Aug 2005 18:37:46 +0100

Trafford Labour Councillors say that Altrincham would have had a new ice rink by now if the Tories had not changed the developer when they got control of the Council.

Tories kick Altrincham Football Club into touch

Tue, 2 Aug 2005 23:47:55 +0100

Two years ago, when Trafford Council was Labour-controlled, there was an agreement to sell land that would have provided much needed financial help to the Club and also benefited the Council.
Now the Tory Council is dragging its feet about marketing this site.

The Truth about the 50p swimming charge for over 60s.

Sun, 31 Jul 2005 23:01:53 +0100

Here you can read the report that recommended the introduction of a 50p charge for swimming for the over 60s. It was agreed by Conservative Cllr. Mrs. Pearson, the Executive Member for Arts and Leisure, in December 2004.

Clifford Ward Newsletter - Summer 2005

Tue, 26 Jul 2005 00:07:41 +0100

A brief newsletter from the Labour Councillors for Clifford Ward of Trafford M.B. Council.

Cllr. David Acton comments on the Audit Commission report about Regeneration in Trafford.

Wed, 20 Jul 2005 23:29:24 +0100

The economic regeneration service provided by Trafford Council is 'fair' but is 'uncertain to improve', according to an independent report released today by the Audit Commission.
The Audit Commission inspection team gave the service one star out of a possible three because it has delivered some impressive regeneration projects and provides services that support the local economy but has not closed the gap between the most disadvantaged neighbourhoods and the rest of Trafford.

Press Release about Parking on Pavements

Tue, 12 Jul 2005 13:15:13 +0100

Whilst discussing a planning application a Trafford Conservative Councillor indicated that he saw no problems with parking on the pavement.
Labour Spokesperson Cllr. Steve Adshead replies.

Trafford Labour Group Podcast

Fri, 8 Jul 2005 23:11:50 +0100

This is just a preliminary trial of podcasting. We hope to develop this service in the coming months.

Press Release about cuts in Day Care provision

Fri, 8 Jul 2005 23:08:15 +0100

Labour attacks the cuts that the Tories are making in the provision for Day Care in Trafford.

Press Release about Trafford's Corporate Plan

Fri, 8 Jul 2005 23:05:57 +0100

Labour Councillors attacked the shortfalls in the Tories' Corporate Plan.

Press Release about the 2005 arrangements for the 11-plus exam

Fri, 8 Jul 2005 23:03:10 +0100

Labour condemns the Tories's plans to hold this year's 11-plus examination in a few central test locations rather than in each individual Primary school.

Press Release about Highways spending

Fri, 8 Jul 2005 23:00:45 +0100

Labour believes that the Tory plans for spending on highway maintenance are not fairly spread across all areas of the Borough.

Press Release about charging over 60s for swimming

Fri, 8 Jul 2005 21:39:39 +0100

At the Council Meeting on 29 July 2005, the Labour Group continued its opposition to the Tory proposals to abolish free swimming in our Leisure Centres for the over 60s.

Press Release about Trafford Youth Service

Fri, 8 Jul 2005 21:39:39 +0100

Labour opposes Tory cuts in the Youth Service in Trafford.