As we approach the local council elections for Crawley, the difference between Labour and Conservatives has never been clearer.  

New analysis shows Labour-run local authorities not only keep council tax £276 lower than the average Conservative Council, they also invest more on the things that matter to local people including keeping our streets safe, helping young people get the best start in life, boosting local economies and keeping the streets clean 

The research, based on analysis of all council budgets for 2023/24, underlines what’s at stake at local elections in May: lower council tax and investment in the services that matter most to residents under Labour, or paying more for less with the Tories.  

After 14 years of chaos and decline under the Conservatives this May’s local elections come at a crucial time. They are our last chance for many voters to express a view on the state of the country, as well as who should be running local services, ahead of the general election. 

We can all see the Tories in Westminster have failed spectacularly – a cost of living crisis, stagnant economy, public services on their knees, a housing emergency and filth clogging up our rivers. And the Tories are failing to keep up with Labour at a local level as well. 

Tory-run West Sussex County Council’s appalling failure on potholes on our roads is also clear to see.  The same study shows Labour-run councils spent 83% more per head on structural maintenance of local roads than Tory councils, including resurfacing and pothole repair, something needed here. 

Labour councils keep council tax much lower for the average household.

Of 164 English district councils, Labour-run Crawley Borough Council has the 33rd lowest council tax, lower than all other districts and boroughs in West Sussex.

Those living in the Tories’ only remaining district in the county pay 53% more for the same services, the 8th highest in England. 

However you look at it, the coming elections are a straight choice between a Conservative Party that has practically given up, and a Labour Party working every day to get Britain’s future back.

Cllr Michael Jones

Leader, Crawley Borough Council