COMMENT: Lib Dem leader claims Tories stole his idea
Various toys have been thrown out of prams this week after the implementation of new grown-up keep fit equipment in Priory Park.
The equipment, provided by Southend Borough Council and waste disposal contractor Cory Environmental, is designed to be used by adults to excercise with and is free to use. It’s a pretty good idea. Councillor Ric Morgan obviously thinks so; he had a go of all the new toys last week when they were launched.
As with all good ideas, however, there is a spat over who thought of it first. Councillor Graham Longley, Liberal Democrat leader, was rather upset to see Tory councillor Derek Jarvis presenting the new equipment, as, Longley claimed, he himself had come up with the idea during a council meeting in 2007.
“I suggested it was an opportunity for young and old being seen together, with grandparents and grandchildren sharing experiences in the park together,” Longley protested on his website.
“However, the Lib Dem proposal was ridiculed by the administration at the time and thrown out by the Tories.
“Imagine my surprise to find Derek Jarvis, councillor responsible for leisure, extolling the virtues of such equipment when installed recently at Priory Park.”
Handbags indeed. Council leader Nigel Holdcroft, however, was quick to refute claims that there had been any nicking of ideas.
“Mr Longley wanted to spend £180,000 of council taxpayers’ money on providing play areas with slides and roundabouts specifically for pensioners, which was a completely absurd idea at the time, and still is now,” he jeered in the Southend Standard.
“What we have got in Priory Park is keep fit equipment, which can be used by any adults from teenagers upwards.”
Unfortunately, no record of that suggestion is available from council minutes to prove either point of view.
CouncilBust.com suggests that Councillors Holdcroft and Longley hold a conkers match to settle the matter once and for all.
I think your being a little unfair. It is important we know who comes up with the ideas, so we know which parties/people are the more progressive and creative.