Keep Newcastle warm in public buildings, Eldon Square. Call in the community to help too, say the Liberal Democrats

Newcastle Liberal Democrats are suggesting radical proposals to create "warm rooms" in public buildings
like libraries and Eldon Square.

Reacting to the latest energy price cap rise Liberal Democrats Leader on the City Council, Cllr Nick Cott
said, "We were warning earlier this month that we are heading for a catastrophe. The
government must step in now, with a windfall tax on the energy companies to bring bills down.
We simply cannot afford more inaction in the face of this massive rise, with more to come."

On a local level Councillor Cott said the Lib Dems would be willing to work with their Labour
counterparts on the council to fast track measures that would help to alleviate some of the
suffering.

"I am writing to the council leader Nick Kemp to suggest creating a "warm places" initiative to
develop plans to use a range of venues. Such as local community buildings and potentially
vacant city centre spaces including inside Eldon Square. These would be places people could
go on the colder days to sit in the warm and enjoy some company. Saving them a fortune in
home heating costs," said Cllr Cott.

The Liberal Democrats believe that the volunteer network that sprung up during the pandemic
could again be mobilised to help run the warm rooms. Plus people should be encouraged to
call on neighbours and check they have everything they need.

"Clearly there may be contractual and rent issues with some buildings but that should not put
us off. No problem is insurmountable, as we saw during the pandemic when there was a huge
upsurge in community spirit and involvement."