As promised, we're sharing all statements received on the topic of improving access to and from the Port of Liverpool and protecting Rimrose Valley, ahead of the general election.
We contacted the 4 main parties and received replies from The Green Party and The Labour Party. We have chased both the Liberal Democrats and Conservatives and given them every opportunity to reply, but nothing has been forthcoming.
We're displaying those we have received in alphabetical order, by party:
Full statement
"The Green Party strongly opposes plans to construct a new road through Rimrose Valley Country Park in the borough of Sefton, Merseyside. If we were in power, we would cancel this scheme, as we believe there are better ways to improve transport links to and from the Port of Liverpool which would avoid the long-term consequences and harm to the local environment and to the health and well-being of the surrounding communities.
The proposed road would worsen air quality in South Sefton, which already has some of the worst levels of pollution in the country and therefore represent a grave threat to public health. The CO2 emissions generated through its construction and subsequent use would contribute to the global climate emergency, at a time when the transport sector urgently needs to reduce its CO2 emissions; it being the only sector to see emissions grow in recent years.
Rimrose Valley, and places like it, serve as a vital green space for the surrounding communities, and offer a sanctuary for residents to connect with nature, engage in recreational activities, and find solace amidst the hustle and bustle of urban life. As such, they need to be recognised and protected as resources for both physical and mental well-being. It is the Green Party’s view that we must prioritise the preservation of such green spaces, which are increasingly rare in our rapidly urbanised world.
Green spaces such as Rimrose Valley are home to a rich and diverse range of plant and animal species, making them essential habitats for our biodiversity to thrive. This biodiversity is under threat. We therefore have a responsibility to protect and preserve such places, as they contribute to the overall health and resilience of our planet's ecosystems.
Building a road through this park would further perpetuate the mindset of prioritising economic growth over environmental sustainability and public health and wellbeing.
It is the Green Party’s view that we must strive for alternative solutions that promote responsible, sustainable development and ensure the preservation of our natural assets, at all costs."
Full Statement
"After 14 years of Tory decay our country, our local communities need change. Change for the better. Change that will rebuild social resilience; change that will rebuild our economy; change that will create good, secure jobs; change that will revitalise our NHS and care services; change that will restore our education system; change that will prioritise our environment.
Rebuilding in a green, sustainable way with hundreds of new community-owned renewable energy projects across the country. I remain opposed to the Rimrose Valley Road proposal as I have been for many years. As part of our green agenda, our communities need investment in transport infrastructure ensuring clean air is a right not a privilege and protects our green, open amenities and spaces from threats. Ensuring that our south Sefton communities benefit from a government that actually cares about the people and the communities who live and work in them must come first.
This change must be built on strong, fair economic sustainable foundations that ensures the long term needs of our communities take precedence over short term economic convenience. It’s time to turn the page, it’s time for change."
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