Kingston’s LibDem-run Council is forcing through secret plans for £5,000,000 of highways works for the Fountain Roundabout in New Malden. The details of the various plans, believed to include removing the roundabout all together and replacing with traffic lights, are being kept secret from local residents and many councillors too.
Kingston Council bids for money each year for Highways schemes, from Transport for London. The LibDem-run council has seemingly chosen to push forward with spending up to £5,000,000 of the money allocated for Highways works on looking into new proposals for the Fountain roundabout, but the usual consultation with residents has been scrapped.
At a recent Neighbourhood Committee meeting residents were informed that the information about the £5million proposals for the roundabout was restricted. After residents voiced their concerns, they were told that a separate consultation meeting would take place. However, a LibDem councillor and officers finally admitted that the consultation meeting would take place AFTER the decision had been made at the upcoming Place Committee.
After much discussion, LibDem councillors resolved to endorse the proposed £5million roundabout schemes, along with less controversial highways proposals. All this is taking place on top of the £250,000 previously approved for works on the Fountain roundabout.
This secrecy and lack of consultation is a very poor look for the LibDem council. No wonder residents are highly suspicious and concerned that such a large amount of tax-payer’s money could be allocated without proper scrutiny taking place prior to a decision taking place.
