A pledge to hold a referendum on the plans for schools re-organisation in Knowsley is the highlight of the Liberal Democrats manifesto for this May’s local elections.

The Lib Dems manifesto spells out how they would like to see the Council tackle key issues and what the priorities will be for Knowsley Borough Council’s Liberal Democrat Group in the coming year.

Entitled “Being Bold – Going for Gold”, plans for the creation of Area Committees with devolved budgets, extra leisure provision and additional measurers to address Crime & Community Safety are also among the priorities featured in the manifesto.

The Lib Dems also promise to restore local Civic Pride to local communities, with more devolved decision making and involvement of local people in matter that affect them.

Commenting on the unique launch Cllr Ian Smith, Leader of the Lib Dem group on Knowsley, said: “This manifesto focuses on the issues and concerns that are high on the agendas of local communities and residents, who frequently tell us they are unhappy with these areas.

“It is also clear they want to feel more closely involved in the democratic decision making process.  For example, the Council has asked communities for feedback on the proposals of the Schools Commission but many local people have been asking us if their views will be heard or simply ignored.

“We are confident they will be heard, the Council has given a commitment to that effect, but our pledge to hold a referendum will ensure the majority view is not only heard but is acted upon.

“This demonstrates and underlines our commitment to democracy and real engagement with local communities and we challenge the ruling group to match it.”