The local Liberal Democrats have unveiled their plans to create a ‘Fair Deal for Reading’ ahead of the council elections this year.

The Reading Liberal Democrats have released their manifesto for the local elections, running candidates in every area of the town.

Priorities include making communities safer, making sure elderly and disabled people receive the highest standard of care, and making the council responsive to residents.

The Lib Dems have also announced a ‘six to fix’ list of specific pledges, which includes introducing joined-up cycle lanes; kerbside glass recycling; making sure there are bus services to all areas of the Borough (especially in Caversham) and safeguarding library, arts and culture services.

Furthermore, the Lib Dems want to ensure that every young person in Reading has an after-school club or youth centre that they can go to; and will stand up to Thames Water on river pollution, sewage, and the state of the water network.

The Lib Dems currently have three councillors on the council, all of whom represent Tilehurst.

James Moore the leader of the Lib Dems on the borough council said: “All across Reading, people are telling us they are tired of excuses from the Labour-run Council and the Conservative Government.

“They are tired of hearing what’s not possible, and having to pay more for it.

“The Liberal Democrats go into these elections as the largest party in Berkshire and leading every local authority surrounding Reading – after decades of Labour control, Reading is crying out for a fresh start.

“We love our town and want to make it the best it can be, whether that’s by ensuring that young people have spaces for them to be, that the town’s bus and cycle networks actually reach everyone, or that we finally bring in kerbside glass recycling.

“These are all things residents are crying out for, and they’re all clearly achievable.

“Reading deserves better than Labour, the Conservatives, and Thames Water.  This Manifesto describes how voting Liberal Democrat in the local elections this May will make a difference to you and your family.

“It’s time to end the excuses.  It’s time for a fair deal for Reading.”

Mr Moore is an incumbent councillor for Tilehurst who is defending his seat this year.

You can view the full manifesto on the Reading Liberal Democrats website.

The election takes place on Thursday, May 2.

There will not be a local election next year, meaning the next chance for people to vote will be 2026.

In the run up to the elections, the Local Democracy Reporting Service will be reporting on each party’s vision for the town.