Only 1/3 Think Council Provides Value for Money

11.21.56am BST (GMT +0100) Thu 9th Jul 2009

Liberal Democrats are pleased that North Yorkshire has done well in the nationwide "Place Survey". However, the figures also reveal some areas of concern.

The Place Survey was carried out towards the end of 2008 and involved questioning a sample of local residents. All councils took part.

Lib Dems are concerned that half of those who responded were unhappy with local bus services, and only 45% were happy with local transport information. Even more worryingly, only a third of residents think the County Council provides good value for money.

Cllr Bill Hoult, Leader of the Lib Dems at County Hall, said:

"I am very pleased that North Yorkshire has come out as one of the best places to live. I'm sure residents knew this to be the case, without the need for a survey!"

"Prosperous areas seem to have done well in the survey, regardless of what their councils are doing."

"The Liberal Democrats have been asking for better consultation on bus timetables for over two years now. This survey seems to prove our case. The council really needs to do more to improve public transport."

"It is no surprise that so few people think the County Council provides good value for money. With Council Tax increases among the highest in the country and half a million pounds a year wasted on the "North Yorkshire Times" newspaper, how could people possibly think their money is being well used?"