I WAS disappointed to discover the composition of the new Conservative cabinet on Southampton City Council following the recent election were all men.

But it explains why their main focus for future policies appear to all based around cars such as removing the bus lanes on Bitterne Road West which was funded by the Conservative government to encourage better bus routes, and removing the pedestrian area in Bedford Place/Carlton Place which was also government funded and which has been enjoyed by the local community during the pandemic.

The latest idea is to create 1000 car parking spaces on our estates, no doubt at the cost of current green spaces enjoyed by all.

It sounds to me like a group of boys who are obsessed with cars. I think the citizens of Southampton deserve better.

We hope the new cabinet on Southampton City Council understand their responsibilities under The Equality Duty which states that those in charge of public services should support good decision making as it encourages public bodies to understand how different people will be affected by their activities so that policies and services are appropriate and accessible to all and meet different people’s needs.

By understanding the effect of their activities on different people, and how inclusive public services can support and open up people’s opportunities, public bodies are better placed to deliver policies and services that are efficient and effective.

Pam Kenny

Southampton