OTLEY residents will soon be receiving the Liberal Democrat manifesto for the next four years.

The document sets out the Town Council’s achievements over the last four years and lists a new set of 10 goals which the Liberal Democrats believe are appropriate, ambitious, but achievable for the town.

Entitled ‘Fighting for Otley, Working for Otley, Investing in Otley’, the Liberal Democrat document’s front cover says: “Four years ago, you trusted us to keep Otley special and improve it further. We believe we have repaid that trust. If you vote for us again, we will continue to fight for, work for, and invest in Otley”. Inside, the leaflet reports progress against the 2019 10-point plan and the back cover details what the group says it will continue to do.

The new 2023 10-point plan is:

Fighting for Otley and its People

1. Remain vigilant on planning, using the community’s Neighbourhood Plan to keep Otley special, fighting to ensure that the East of Otley development recognises the climate and biodiversity crises and includes housing and employment opportunities for local people.

2. Help secure investment for community groups and local projects.

Working for Otley and its People

3. Audit community spaces in Otley and ensure that community groups and events are not just celebrate but also receive appropriate and practical support.

4. Implement our biodiversity and carbon reduction plans and invest further in Gallows Hill Nature Reserve.

5. Work alongside City Councillors on road and pedestrian safety measures wherever they are sensible and affordable. Progress the Wharfedale Greenway.

6. Continue to improve coordination between community groups and others working for Otley and its residents through such initiatives as Warm Spaces.

Investing in Otley and its People

7. Continue to ensure good management of council assets, risks, and costs, recognising our commitment to the climate emergency and to keeping the precept affordable.

8. Maintain our commitment to the Community Fund and Investing in Otley Fund.

9. Agree and develop accessibility and environmental improvements to Kirkgate and the Otley townscape, consistent with StreetVision 2030 and the views of residents.

10. Continue to support the local economy and work with partners on a new marketing strategy to promote the town as an attractive destination for shoppers, visitors, and tourists.

Chair of the Town Council over the last four years, and current Otley Liberal Democrat Leader Richard Hughes said: “The manifesto is detailed and we would urge people to read it all. It is a serious plan for the town, showing how a Liberal Democrat Council would continue to improve Otley for its residents and businesses.”

Penny Robinson, Deputy Leader of the Lib Dems, and Vice-Chair of the Council, said: “It’s a privilege to undertake this voluntary role for the benefit of the town. We are grateful for the trust placed in us to deliver our 2019 plans and look forward to fighting for, working for, and investing in Otley and its people again over the next four years.”

Lib Dem Town Councillor Paul Carter, current Chair of the Council’s Trade and Tourism Committee, said: “The ambition of the Liberal Democrat group for the town and wider environment is one of the reasons I am proud of both our record and our plans. We have declared climate and biodiversity emergencies. Our action on these is consistent with improving our town for all.”

Ryk Downes, City Councillor for Otley and Yeadon added: “It is really helpful for the City Councillors working with a like-minded and ambitious Town Council as we seek to ensure Otley gets a good deal and the right support for town improvements. Otley is fortunate to have a group of individuals who work hard for the town all year round.”