Ahead of the upcoming county council elections on May 4, we asked each party to submit details of their manifesto pledges. 

This is the response we received from Sue Murray of the Watford Greens.

The Green Party's candidates at this May's election are calling for urgent environmental and social action to be taken to remedy some of the problems faced by the county council.

Hertfordshire Greens are fielding a record number of 65 candidates in the election, plus five by-election candidates on the same day.

Green Party candidates are pledging that if elected they will use their influence to put power in the hands of local communities and protect local services.

The Green Party candidates in Watford have also highlighted three major issues facing residents in the area, which they claim the current ruling administration on the council have failed to address.

The Green Party has long been concerned about air pollution and its health impacts which in its view have reached “unacceptable levels” in Watford, and have breached national objectives for air quality.

It is estimated that at least 40,000 early deaths occur each year across the country due to air pollution.

Su Murray of Watford Green Party, explained: “Air pollution is caused by transport emissions, such as cars and lorries, especially by diesel vehicles during rush hour on our most congested roads.

“Watford needs investment in cycle lanes and better public transport, which will mean fewer cars on the road, and healthier lifestyle options being available to more people. We would also look into setting up shared car-use schemes.”

The Green Party also stress issues surrounding the expansion of the private rented sector and the buy-to-let landlords market has also driven up the price of housing, which is particularly felt by first-time buyers and renters.

Su Murray stated: “There is a severe lack of social and/or affordable housing in Watford. High rental prices are a major issue.

“The Green Party will work towards better use of brownfield sites and will look to halt the sale of social housing to the private sector.

“Perhaps most importantly though, investment is needed to insulate homes, and to build carbon-neutral homes, particularly among social housing.

Finally the Green Party want to ensure that there is a more coordinated approach to dealing with waste management and fly-tipping which they say is “blighting some neighbourhoods”

Su Murray added: “Fly-tipping creates multiple negative impacts on local communities, such as risk to public health, poor local image and a lack of trust in the relevant authorities.

“It is caused by a combination of a lack of accessible public refuse collection, poor enforcement, and limited awareness of the available options for disposal.

“Greens would invest more in clearing rubbish, would raise awareness of disposal options and improve enforcement, which may include more fines issued for those caught illegally fly-tipping.”

We will be bringing you live coverage of the count as it happens on the evening of Thursday, May 4. ​