Eighteen months ago, Labour and Liberal Democrat councillors came together to represent the views of residents by forming a majority on Milton Keynes City Council.
The Labour and Lib Dem-run Progressive Alliance renewed its agreement in May 2022 following a successful year in administration and, in November, marked 18 months of running the City Council.
The Progressive Alliance has continued its work to ensure Milton Keynes is a thriving, progressive, and sustainable city. Councillors have also prioritised helping residents through the cost of living crisis, which is the toughest financial crisis in a generation.
Since May 2022, the Progressive Alliance has:
Allocated over £18m as part of the 22/23 budget to help those who are struggling financially, including help with council tax, concessionary public transport fares and help with energy bills
Launched a £3.3m Winter Plan consisting of practical and financial support for those struggling through the cost of living crisis
Delivered more than 26,000 free activity sessions and meals for children and young people through the Summer of Play – with an additional 7,000 sessions available for children during the upcoming Christmas holiday
Introduced six more ‘Homework Plus’ clubs, meaning there are now eight in Milton Keynes
Helped hundreds of pensioners with paying council tax who have each received a share of £52,000 in grants so far
Repaired nearly 6,000 potholes (from April to August 2022) and invested millions of pounds in long-term improvements on roads, pavements and redways
Made the City Council a White Ribbon accredited organisation to help end male violence against women
This means the Progressive Alliance are well on their way to achieving their extensive 85-point Council Plan.
Councillor Pete Marland, Labour Leader of Milton Keynes City Council, said:
“Eighteen months ago, the Progressive Alliance came together to put people before politics. Since then, we have been working hard to ensure the new city of Milton Keynes is a sustainable, welcoming and innovative place to live and do business. We have also committed to support our residents by mitigating the impact of the cost of living crisis, and this support will continue as more families start to feel the crunch. I’m proud of what the Progressive Alliance has achieved so far and look forward to continue working together for the benefit of Milton Keynes.”
Deputy Leader of Milton Keynes City Council, Lib Dem Councillor Robin Bradburn, added:
“By putting party politics aside, the Progressive Alliance has continued to be a strong combined force working hard to make Milton Keynes a city where everyone can lead happy and healthy lives.
“Together, we will continue to deliver our 85-point Council Plan by supporting our residents through the cost-of-living crisis, reducing child poverty and doing the essentials well – all while being ambitious, and delivering today while innovating for tomorrow.”