The Lib Dems are proposing:

• £10,000 to cut business recycling charges by 100%.
• £25,000 for improvements to cycle routes on roads under the Council's control.
• £10,000 to allow the Council planning department to reduce charges for planning applications relating to energy conservation measures and micro-generation, such as wind turbines and solar panels.

Lib Dems also propose reversing the Labour Mayor's suggested cuts of £29,300 in minor traffic schemes.

Councillor Cathy Priddey, Lib Dem Environment Spokesperson, said, "These proposals will bring real benefits to the environment. We know that local businesses are keen to recycle, and cutting their charges will ensure that small businesses, which often operate on very tight budgets, will be able to make more of a contribution to reducing our use of resources."

Councillor Priddey continued, "We are also keen to promote measures to get people out of their cars, and one way to do this is to ensure that cycling is a safe and enjoyable experience. The money we are proposing will enable the implementation of more dedicated cycle lanes, boxes at junctions and safe routes."

The Lib Dems' proposed cut to planning charges is aimed at encouraging people to take steps to reduce their energy consumption. Councillor Priddey said, "Putting in place energy-saving measures can be expensive, and we are keen to help people who want to cut their energy use - cutting the cost of seeking planning permission will go some way to achieving this."

All of these measures are balanced by savings in other spending areas and are part of a carefully costed budget, which is being proposed by the Liberal Democrat group at the Council meeting on 1st March.