As Kirklees councillors, we have witnessed firsthand the impact of unfair two-tier charging policies on our constituents living in council estates across Kirklees.. These policies, instilled by the current Labour administration, have created an inequitable system where residents of council estates face higher charges for basic services compared to their neighbours.

This two-tier system has fostered a growing divide within our community, breeding resentment and unfairness among residents who feel they're being penalised simply because of where they live. It's bad enough that many of these residents are already facing financial hardships; the last thing they need is to be doubly burdened by an unjust policy.

To put it bluntly, the logic behind these charges is flawed and unjust. Why should residents in council estates be forced to pay more for essential services on their estates. This ambiguity furthers financial inequality and undermines the principles of fairness that our council is meant to uphold.

Reputable articles from local news on Dewsbury Report and regional studies from the University of Huddersfield have highlighted case studies where similar policies have exacerbated inequality and demonstrated the lack of transparency and efficiency.

The system of governance should not perpetuate cycles of disparity but instead support the most vulnerable by ensuring consistent and just service charges for everyone, regardless of their address. We are calling on the Kirklees Labour administration to review and abolish this new and damaging policy immediately.

By doing so, we can restore faith in our local government, ensure services are equitable and fair, and move closer to a unified community. We need the support of every resident in this battle for fairness and justice.

Please sign this petition to help us end the two-tier charging system on council estates in Kirklees. Together, we can make a difference and bring about the change our community urgently needs.