Runnymede Council meetings now live streamed: A win for transparency

After years of advocacy by Liberal Democrat councillors, Runnymede Borough Council has finally introduced live streaming for council meetings, making local democracy more accessible to residents across the borough.

This important step forward means that residents can now watch council meetings from the comfort of their homes, removing barriers to participation in local government and allowing more people to see how decisions affecting their communities are made.

The move to live streaming was announced on the council's website, with meetings now available to watch live or on-demand through the council's webcasting portal. This means residents no longer need to travel to the Civic Centre in Addlestone to observe council proceedings.

Liberal Democrat Co-Leader of Runnymede Council, Don Whyte, welcomed the development: "This is a significant victory for transparency and accessibility in our local democracy. We believe that council business should be open to all residents, regardless of their ability to attend meetings in person."

The introduction of live streaming follows a long campaign by the Runnymede Alliance councillors. Back in July 2020, during the previous Conservative administration, Lib Dem councillor Theresa Burton proposed a motion to introduce audio recording of all council committee meetings to improve "accessibility, openness, transparency and accountability." Despite the minimal costs involved and the clear benefits to residents, this proposal was rejected at the time.

"We're delighted that as part of the Runnymede Council Alliance, we've been able to deliver on our commitment to greater openness," added Councillor Whyte. "This change will help ensure that council decisions are made in the open, with proper scrutiny from residents."

Live streaming offers numerous benefits to residents, including:

• Greater accessibility for those with mobility issues or caring responsibilities
• Increased transparency in council decision-making
• The ability to watch meetings at a convenient time
• Better understanding of how taxpayers' money is being spent
• Improved accountability of elected representatives

The Liberal Democrats are committed to an open and accessible council that listens to and engages with residents. This development represents an important step in our ongoing work to make Runnymede Borough Council more transparent and accountable to the people it serves.

To access live and recorded council meetings, visit the council's webcasting portal via the Runnymede Borough Council website.

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