THE statement from Ilkley Town Council refuting the claim of Mr Loy that 20mph zones will be imposed by Ilkley Town Council, as factually inaccurate, was a smoke and mirrors exercise to obscure the fact that the Liberal Democrat Green Party are driving efforts to have Councillor Ros Brown’s favoured project, the Ben Rhydding 20 mph zone, brought forward without consultation and at all costs. Double cost in fact.

The responsibility for Highways does indeed lie with Bradford Council, to which residents already pay council tax for these services. Highways would pay the full cost if the schemes were implemented in order of safety need. The only way to get Ben Rhydding brought forward was for Ilkley Town Council to half fund two schemes.

The Liberal Democrat Green Party are so determined that they are increasing next year’s Town Council precept – council tax, to the extent of tens of thousands of pounds. This double taxes Ilkley residents for a scheme which was third on the Highway’s list of priorities in order of safety need. Consultation would probably result in residents rejecting this double tax scheme.

The priority for traffic calming is round the densely populated area of Valley Drive, which would include access to Sacred Heart Primary School, and Cowpasture Road where the Grammar School is, protecting hundreds of children.

The good news is that the Liberal Democrat Green Party plan has been deferred by Bradford Council whilst revised plans are prepared.

There should now be full consultation with residents from all areas to develop a Town Plan, including 20 mph issues, based on their needs and desires and priorities.

Valerie Halton

Conservative

Ilkley