The key question at the next election? Is Labour really listening?

Brighton and Hove's Labour council is facing criticism for its handling of key issues, including library closures and devolution. Despite a consultation finding overwhelming concern about library closures, the council's cabinet pressed ahead with reduced hours and closures at some branches. The same pattern was seen in devolution, where the public was sceptical but the cabinet continued with its plans. The council's approach has been described as technocratic and unresponsive to residents' concerns. Total borrowing by the council had reached £445.3 million by September, and further external borrowing may be required. Residents are concerned about high rents, stretched services, and uneven development, and feel that the council is not listening to their concerns. The Labour cabinet's approach is seen as confusing consultation with consent, and residents are questioning whether they are being heard.