By KLTV Newsdesk –
In a powerful display of solidarity, approximately 200 individuals took to the streets of Dewsbury and Batley on Saturday to voice their discontent over proposed cuts to council services, including the impending closure of a local leisure centre.
The protesters, representing a diverse cross-section of the community, marched the two-mile distance between the towns to bring attention to the pressing issue.
The focal point of their concern is Kirklees Council, responsible for overseeing Dewsbury and Batley, which is implementing service and job cuts as part of its strategy to address a £47 million budget deficit.
Like many other local authorities, the Council finds itself grappling with the ramifications of a 50 per cent reduction in government funding since the Conservative party assumed power in Westminster in 2010.
Organisers of the march said the protest intended to make the council aware of the opposition and adverse effects the closures would have on both current residents and future generations.
They emphasised the significant challenges already faced by the youth and elderly members of the community, attributing these difficulties to what they perceive as mismanagement at both local and national political levels. The demonstrators argued that it is unjust for Kirklees residents to bear the consequences of these closures.
The rally aimed to draw attention to the broader impact of the council’s decisions on the local population and to demand a reconsideration of the proposed service cuts.
The final full council meeting is set to take place on the 13th of December, and campaigners are expected to gather once again to keep asking questions of the kirklees cabinet.