I've watched as the Shropshire and Shrewsbury council have made questionable financial decisions that have long-standing impacts on our community. They have wasted £32 million on consultants for a relief road that never progressed. Without any work taken place, that money evaporated, taking with it the hopes for alleviated traffic and accessibility improvements in our region. To add to this, a staggering £100 million has been spent on two shopping centres that, in these difficult times, are quickly devaluing, further proving to be a wasted investment. As taxpayers, we bear the brunt of these poorly thought-out decisions and then face increased taxes without proper democratic processes.

Recently, both Shropshire and Shrewsbury councils have decided to raise our council taxes without holding a referendum. We, the residents, were not given a voice or a vote. A simple survey does not equate to a referendum, and our democratic rights demand that such significant decisions should involve a legal and mandatory referendum process—especially when it directly impacts our pockets.

The historic county of Shropshire deserves a council that honors transparency and respects the taxpayer. Ignoring the necessity of a referendum not only undermines our democracy but also threatens our financial stability. These arbitrary tax raises are salt in the wound for many families who are already struggling to make ends meet.

Now is the time to stand together and demand accountability from our elected officials. We must hold them responsible for these unnecessary expenditures and insist on the lawful approach when deciding on tax increases.

Join me in calling for a halt on raising council taxes without a referendum. If enough of us raise our voices, we can push for a system that genuinely reflects the will of the people. Please sign this petition to demand a fair and democratic process for any future tax increases and ensure that our councils manage public funds with responsibility and care. Your signature can make a difference.