Lib Dems use budget debate to call for investment in Bromley Town Centre

Town centre regeneration and support for the vulnerable are at the forefront of Bromley Liberal Democrats’ vision for the borough, as outlined in a proposed amendment for Bromley Council’s budget for 2025–26.

The Council met on 26 February to debate the budget proposed by the Conservative majority, including amendments tabled by opposition groups. Acknowledging that a funding squeeze is currently being faced by all local authorities, the Lib Dems nonetheless pointed to increased local competition as one of a number of risks to Bromley’s economic wellbeing.

Liberal Democrat Leader Councillor Chloe-Jane Ross said:

“News that Westfield is moving forward with their plans for Croydon, and the existence of other thriving centres in the South East means that Bromley Town Centre is facing a real and existential threat to its long-term stability. We need to act before it’s too late and kick-start economic regeneration here in Bromley. A revitalised town centre will not only bring immediate benefits to local residents, but also act as an engine for economic growth throughout the borough.”

The Lib Dems also used their amendment to propose some achievable measures aimed at increasing support for the most vulnerable, including funding to reduce the number of empty homes in the borough, and reversing the Conservatives’ plans to cancel the Welfare Fund, which provides funding for basic household items for residents in dire financial straits. 

“There are nearly 2,000 families in Bromley who are living with the challenges and uncertainty of being in temporary accommodation. ” said Cllr Ross. “This is not only a tragedy, but also a major financial challenge for the Council as costs are skyrocketing. We must do everything we can to protect the families who are at the sharp end of this problem, as well as saving the Council money that can be diverted to other important services. “

Other proposals included in the Lib Dems’ budget amendment were:

• Action on road safety and speeding, including funding for smaller interventions and safer crossings
• An expansion of the loneliness strategy to safeguard against digital exclusion
• A repeated request to implement car parking machines with card payment technology

You can read the Liberal Democrats' full proposal here.