Liberal Democrats call for more money to repair Surrey’s potholed roads and protect bus services

The recently published Surrey County Council Budget for 2015/16 has revealed a reduction of £400,000 in funding for Highways and Transport compared with this year. The Budget is set to be decided by the County Council on 10 February.

Cllr Stephen Cooksey, Liberal Democrat Spokesperson for Highways and Transport said: "I am calling on the Conservative administration at County Hall to increase funding for Highways and Transport by £1 million by transferring the money from Business Services. The Highways budget is set to overspend by nearly £1 million this year whilst Business Services is expected to underspend by £4.5 million. It therefore makes sense to put the money where it is needed, with Highways and Transport.

"I have welcomed recent investment in resurfacing some of Surrey's roads, but there are still many roads and footways in poor condition. Local residents remain concerned about Surrey's potholed roads and crumbling footways. Last year the County Council paid out more than £250,000 in compensation to drivers who damaged their vehicles on Surrey's potholes. It would be more sensible to spend money on repairing the roads instead of paying compensation.

"Surrey residents are also concerned about the potential threat to bus services following the recent bus review by the County Council. Cutting bus services would be a step in the wrong direction given Surrey's congested roads and the many residents who are dependent on bus services. The extra money I am proposing will also help to protect Surrey's bus services from being cut."