The Green Party have launched a 'bold plan for a fairer, greener and cleaner Reading' in their manifesto for the town.
The manifesto is focused on delivering affordable homes, better public services and cleaner neighbourhoods, and has been launched on the run-up to the election on Thursday, May 7.
The party says it will focus on tackling poverty, improving public services and delivering more affordable housing, while taking stronger action on climate change.
The launch follows the national campaign led by Zack Polanski, who criticised Labour councils across the country for failing to deliver enough social and affordable homes.
Greens say Reading reflects this national picture, with rising housing need, growing inequality and increasing pressure on local services.
In Reading, Greens have been critical of the Labour-run council for only delivering 11 affordable homes last year, against an already low target of 169.
They have also highlighted the results of their previous investigation.
The number of new council homes built by Labour in Reading is similar to the number being lost through Right to Buy, at a time when many more are needed.
Locally, the Green Party is already the second largest group on Reading Borough Council. They say gaining more councillors will strengthen their ability to hold the Labour administration to account and push for change.
The party’s manifesto highlights key priorities: properly funded council services, more affordable housing, urgent home insulation to cut energy bills and cleaner air and streets. Greens also pledge to support local businesses and work towards better public transport and stronger communities.
They point to their record of campaigning for affordable housing, fairer social care, action on climate change, improved road safety and better local services. They say their approach puts residents first and focuses on practical improvements to everyday life.
Councillor Louise Keane (Green, Katesgrove), the deputy leader of the main opposition party on the council, said: “People in Reading feel let down. They’re paying more but getting less, while big problems like housing, poverty and pollution are not being fixed. Greens are different. We’re not afraid to criticise Labour government failures and we work hard all year round and stand up for local people.
“This campaign is about offering hope and real change. We will fight for proper funding, warmer homes, better services and a cleaner environment. With more Green councillors, we can hold the council to account and start to build the fairer, greener, cleaner Reading that residents deserve.
“Vote Green at the council election on Thursday, May 7 and make hope normal again."
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