Bedford borough’s Labour Group won’t reconsider its position on East West Rail until after the next consultation, its leader has said.
Cllr Carl Meader ( Kempston South) gave this statement following a question from a Bedford resident during last night’s Full Council Meeting (March 20).
Ms Marie-Jo Pace-Maund said that Harpur Ward councillors had recently confirmed their support for residents on social media.
“When will the [Labour] Group change its position on supporting the northern route given that EWR is unlikely to change its position on needing six tracks?” she asked.
“If that was a position that could be changed… it would give support to Protect Poets, who are very much against a northern route,” she said.
Cllr Meader replied: “The Labour Group has stated its position previously. If we do change our position it will be after the next consultation process.
“But at the moment the position stands as that [in the] press release we released some time ago.”
Ms Pace-Maund said: “If the group were to change its position before the formal consultation it would actually add weight to the position that residents are currently insidiously living under.
“They need the support of their local councillors and it needs to be clear in terms of its position. Otherwise, there is a lack of clarity.
“If the Group changes its position it might add some weight due to the fact that we are receiving support from our local group,” she said.
Cllr Meader said the comments will be “taken on board” and that he is willing to meet up to discuss this further. Ms Pace-Maund then addressed the leader of the Lib Dem Group, cllr Henry Vann (De Parys).
“I would like to clarify on behalf of Protect Poets Group that we are not against the EWR project, but against the northern route. Would you please acknowledge that you understand this position, so it is a matter of public record,” she asked.
Cllr Vann replied: “Yes.”
By John Guinn
Local Democracy Reporter
