The Reading Conservatives have issued their manifesto of what they would do if elected on the eve of the council elections.

The manifesto has 10 core priorities, which include freezing council tax, standing up to developers, introducing doorstep glass recycling and tackling fly-tipping.

It states: “Times are tough for everyone. Reading Conservatives recognise the importance of sensible financial management by councils and the delivery of efficient, value-for-money services.

“If elected, our candidates are committed to delivering this and sustainable improvements for our community.”

The Conservatives state that if they led the council, they would freeze council tax, make sure housing developments are sustainable with the necessary infrastructure, and avoid approving developments on ‘valuable green space’.

Four of the party’s priorities are focused on the everyday issue of travel.

The manifesto states that, while the Conservatives are committed to achieving Net Zero and encouraging people to use sustainable modes of transport, motorists should not be vilified.

They have argued that some people have no option but to rely on their cars.

The manifesto states: “We will end Labour’s penalisation of drivers by removing unfair fines and restrictions, and restoring free parking where it has been removed.”

Nick Fudge, the Conservative candidate for Kentwood ward and cllr Raj Singh, an elected representative for Kentwood, have a Change.org petition calling for 30-minute free weekday stays at the Recreation Road and Dunstall Close car parks in Tilehurst to be reinstated.

Other travel initiatives the Conservatives are backing is the introduction of a third bridge over the River Thames, prioritise road repair programmes to fix potholes and infrastructure to improve bus services.

On the issue of waste, the Conservatives would also introduce a doorstep glass recycling scheme, which has been provided in West Berkshire for years, and is a policy also endorsed by the Green Party and the Liberal Democrats.

Additionally, the Conservatives have committed to working with Thames Valley Police and neighbours to address issues such as anti-social behaviour, graffiti, and ‘the blight of fly-tipping’.

The manifesto states: “We will prioritise safer and cleaner streets for all residents.”

Councillor Clarence Mitchell (Conservative, Emmer Green) leader of the Conservative Group on the council said: “The Labour administration in Reading has failed the town for too long.

“They take residents for granted, fail to deliver on their promises, and consistently prioritise their own agenda over the genuine needs of our community.

“Choosing Conservative candidates on May 2 offers a chance for positive change and a fairer deal for every resident.”

People can vote in person from 7am to 10pm on polling day tomorrow (Thursday, May 2).

The Conservatives are defending one seat in the election this year, held by cllr Simon Robinson for Emmer Green ward.