Lib Dems call for "bus tax" to be axed

Plans by Labour to slap a £50-a-day charge on buses using central Newcastle could result in fewer services in Gateshead. And this in turn could lead to more cars on local roads, higher fares, more congestion and more pollution, warn local Liberal Democrats.

The bus tax is part of revised plans put forward by Labour-run Newcastle, Gateshead and North Tyneside Councils after initial proposals earlier this year to charge nearly every vehicle to drive across bridges over the Tyne to tackle air pollution were widely slammed as unworkable.

The new plans being put out to consultation include charging older buses £50 a day to drive in central Newcastle, though it would not apply to new, clean buses. Lorries and vans will also have to pay. Charging cars to enter central Newcastle is not proposed yet, but there will be an option to do so in the future.

Lib Dem Councillor for Low Fell, Daniel Duggan, said "The proposal to charge buses could lead to fewer services for residents. Labour say they want more people using buses, but this will have the opposite effect.”

Lib Dem Councillor Ron Beadle said “These plans will lead to higher fares and more people travelling by car. This will mean more, not less, congestion".

To give your views on the latest consultation visit here

Kells Lane drain unblocked

Residents raised with Low Fell Lib Dem councillors the issue of blocked drains where Kells Lane meets the bottom of Dean Street. This was causing problems with flooding here when it rained. 

"After we raised it with the Council, we are pleased to see the drains here have now been cleaned out," said Cllr Danial Duggan. "There is, however, a gully, along part of Kells Lane, that still needs cleaning and we are pressing the Council to do this."

Supporting the Little Theatre

Low Fell Lib Dem Councillors Daniel Duggan and Ron Beadle recently attended an awareness evening hosted by the Little Theatre, near Saltwell Park (see photo above).

The Little Theatre are planning to build a new rehersal space which will greatly enhance the theatre facilities for the Progressive Players, visiting drama groups, and the local community. It will provide space for a youth group so budding actors and actresses can practice. They have secured some funding, but if you are able to help further with their fundraising efforts please contact them.

Councillor Ron Beadle said "It was a great evening learning about the Little Theatre's history, the great plays they have put on, and their exciting plans for the future. The Little Theatre is a real gem in our community. If you can support them in anyway please do let them know."

Concerned about crime in Low Fell?

Low Fell's Councillors will be holding a joint advice surgery with Northumbria Police on Tuesday, 15th October at Kells Lane Primary School from 6pm to 7pm. If you would like to speak to a police officer on a one on one basis please drop by.

Councillor Susan Craig said, "Low Fell is a great place and it's important that any anti-social or criminal activity is dealt with. If you have concerns please do come along and speak to the police."

New bus stop for Kells Lane

Nexus have agreed to provide a new bus stop outside Pimlico Court on Kells Lane, Low Fell.

Local Lib Dem Councillor Daniel Duggan said, “Residents contacted us about how far the nearest bus stop was from Pimlico Court.  This was particularly difficult for people carrying heavy shopping back home. Hopefully, a new bus stop will help improve this situation for residents.”

Pictured: Daniel on Kells Lane, outside Pimlico Court, where the new bus stop is to be located

Supporting St Peter's Choir

Low Fell's Councillors have donated £500 from the Local Community Fund to the Friends of St Peter's in order to support their fundraising efforts so that St Peter's RC Primary School choir can perform in the Music for Youth Festival Proms at the Royal Albert Hall.

Low Fell Councillor Daniel Duggan said "I and my colleagues, Ron and Susan, are delighted to be able to support this. It will be a wonderful opportunity for the children to perform at the Royal Albert Hall and we wish all those involved the very best of luck".