Royal Greenwich Councillors Put On The Spot In A Question and Answer Session

by Nancy Weirh | Woolwich

* Leader of the Royal Borough of Greenwich, Cllr Denise Hyland (r)
and Deputy Leader, Cllr John Fahy during the Question
and Answer Session. (Credit: RBG)

Over forty residents gave the leader and deputy leader of the Royal Borough of Greenwich a Question Time-style grilling during a public question and answer session.

The open meeting gave locals a chance to put council leader Cllr Denise Hyland and deputy leader Cllr John Fahy on the spot over issues ranging from how to improve Woolwich, to the need for better public transport in Eltham.

The event was chaired by BBC journalist Ian Ramsdale and is the first in a series of planned forums designed to get residents more involved in discussions about direction the council is taking.

Topics raised included funding cuts and the importance of ensuring they do not disproportionately affect people with disabilities.

Transport, libraries, air quality and the environment also featured, with views expressed on the London Mayor’s proposals for new river crossings which is supported by the council.

Cllr Hyland agreed with Eltham residents who complained about poor transport links between the north and south of the borough, and stressed that the council is lobbying Transport for London for improvements – including an extension of the Docklands Light Railway.

She also explained that the council is exploring the idea of ‘living streets’ where some residential streets would be designed as safe places for children to play.

Councillor Hyland stressed: “It’s so important for us as Councillors to hear what local people think. With councils facing further deep cuts in funding, Councillors are faced with difficult decisions about the services that should receive priority."

“We are absolutely committed to retaining and protecting frontline services, and to making efficiency savings wherever we can – but there will inevitably be services that have to be reduced, or provided in different ways. That’s why it’s vital for us to remain in dialogue with residents, so that we can reflect the priorities of local people as best we can.”