Wiltshire Conservatives Question Competence of Liberal Democrat Cabinet after U-Turn

Wednesday, 4 February 2026 10:43

Yesterday, Wiltshire Council Liberal Democrats reversed their budget proposals to close Household Recycling Centres in Lower Compton and Purton, and to withdraw funding for much-needed Community Transport.

These U-turns followed considerable protests over several weeks by residents, communities and Conservative Councillors about the "senselessness" of these proposals. It was confirmed that Purton HRC would remain open for three years, but the commitment to Lower Compton HRC is for one year only.

Cllr Richard Clewer said following the meeting, “Whilst it is very good news that the Lib Dems have seen sense regarding the abysmal proposals to close the two Household Recycling Centres and to cut Community Transport - I have grave concerns about the competency of the Cabinet which allowed these proposals to get on the table.

"Frankly any skilled politician should be able to see these proposals were idiotic. Residents in the north of the county deserve better. And the strategic benefits of Community Transport particularly in terms of coordination with the NHS for our most vulnerable residents are clear for all to see.”

Cllr Ashley O’Neill (Calne Rural Division) also commented, “I’m pleased that Lower Compton will remain open for the next year. But I am very disappointed that, there is no commitment from the Lib Dems beyond 2026/27, for an HRC in Calne. Residents can be assured that I will continue to make the case very strongly for an HRC to serve the Calne area.”

More from Local News

ALABARÉ thanks Veterans’ Foundation for helping to break the cycle of homelessness for 170 veterans

Salisbury-based charity ALABARÉ has supported more than 170 former military personnel facing homelessness, thanks to a generous grant from the Veterans’ Foundation.
Council fines fly-tipper caught on Churchfields industrial estate CCTV

Wiltshire Council has issued a £1,000 fixed penalty notice (FPN) to a Larkhill resident after CCTV footage caught them fly-tipping on an industrial estate in Salisbury.
Firearms amnesty: Public encouraged to hand Bruni firearms to Wiltshire Police this February

A top or side venting blank firer (TVBF) amnesty is taking place across England and Wales from 2 – 27 February 2026, to remove five specific models of Bruni TVBFs from circulation.
National Warm Homes Plan set to Accelerate Local Home Energy Upgrades

Wiltshire Council has welcomed the Government’s new Warm Homes Plan, as the local authority continues its efforts to support energy upgrades locally.
The Revd Neil Traynor to be installed as new Canon Treasurer at Salisbury Cathedral

Salisbury Cathedral has announced the appointment, by the Bishop of Salisbury, of The Revd Neil Traynor as its new Canon Treasurer, a role previously held in Salisbury by the newly appointed Archbishop of Canterbury, Dame Sarah Mullally.
Salisbury Street Sellers return to Market Place Later this Year

Salisbury City Council’s Salisbury Street Sellers markets are returning this year, bringing four days of themed family fun to the city centre!
Song for Christmas Trophy Presented at Winning School

St Nicholas Primary School in Porton received their Song for Christmas Trophy on Friday (30th January) at their celebration worship.
Salisbury suffer defeat in Surrey against Dorking

A well-drilled Dorking outfit put an end to Salisbury's new year unbeaten streak.