I am thrilled to share an important update on the campaign for remote participation in council meetings — an issue that has been close to my heart, especially since becoming a mum. The government has now confirmed it plans to legislate to allow local councils to create their own remote and hybrid attendance policies. This means councils will soon have the freedom to decide how and when councillors can attend meetings online. Proxy voting will also be introduced in certain circumstances, such as parental leave or long-term illness, making it easier for councillors to continue serving their communities during challenging times. This change comes after an extensive consultation, which received an incredible 5,844 responses from councillors, councils, and members of the public. 86% of respondents supported allowing remote attendance, with many highlighting how it would open up local politics to a more diverse range of candidates — particularly those of working age, with disabilities, or with caring responsibilities. Minister for Local Government, Jim McMahon OBE MP, stated: “We want to ensure that local authorities can develop their own remote and hybrid attendance policies, with local knowledge, and to respond to local need… These reforms will improve the experience of elected members serving their communities and encourage more people to consider locally elected office.” For me, this victory is about more than convenience. It’s about breaking down barriers that prevent talented, passionate people from standing as councillors. Whether you’re caring for a newborn, recovering from illness, or balancing work and public service, you should not have to step back from representing your community. As someone who has pushed for this reform locally and nationally, I’m delighted to see the government listening. Worcester City Council unanimously supported my motion on this issue, and it’s fantastic to know that this campaign has contributed to real, positive change. This is the start of a more inclusive and forward-looking approach to local democracy. I’ll continue working to ensure councils across the country are ready to adopt these new policies as soon as they become law. What do you think about remote council meetings? Would hybrid meetings encourage more people in your community to step forward and represent local voices? I’d love to hear your thoughts. Contact me HERE
Liberal Democrats Welcome Bid to Modernise Worcester’s Planning Services
Worcester City Council has submitted a bid to the Government’s Digital Planning Improvement Fund to upgrade and modernise the city’s planning services. The project, called “Worcester Goes Digital,” aims to make planning information easier for residents and businesses to access, while supporting faster and more transparent decision-making. Cllr Jessie Jagger, Co-Leader of the Liberal Democrat Group, said: “This is a fantastic step forward. Our planning team already does excellent work, and this project will give them the tools to make services even more user-friendly and accessible for the public. I’m proud that our Liberal Democrat team’s push for smarter, more open planning services has helped secure this application. Now we’re waiting for the outcome, and we’re hopeful Worcester will get the support it deserves.” The funding decision is expected later this year. This work reflects the Liberal Democrat team’s wider commitment to modernising council services and ensuring residents have better, easier access to the information they need
“Left Out and Let Down” — Warndon Villages Councillors Demand Action on A4440 Speeding and Street Racing
Liberal Democrat councillors in Warndon Villages are urging immediate action to tackle dangerous speeding and street racing along the A4440 — and are warning that current plans to address these issues elsewhere on the road risk ignoring a community that is already suffering disruption, danger, and anti-social driving. A meeting has been arranged to discuss road safety and speeding along the A4440 between Whittington and Powick, but councillors Sarah Murray and John Rudge have voiced frustration that the stretch through Warndon Villages — where these issues are already a major problem – has been left out. Cllr Sarah Murray said: “We’ve already brought a motion to City Council on the urgent need for stronger roads policing, and I’ve met with the Police and Crime Commissioner to press for more enforcement from West Mercia Police. Yet we’ve seen no real action taken to address the escalating issues in our area.” Residents have reported street racers using Parsonage Way and other parts of the A4440 through Warndon Villages almost every night. The councillors warn that by focusing efforts solely on teh southern stretch of the A4440, current plans ignore the fact that these dangerous behaviours are already a persistent issue in their area. “This isn’t a case of the problem moving into Warndon Villages – it’s already here,” said Cllr John Rudge. “By leaving our stretch out of the conversation, the County Council is ignoring residents who deal with this every night. We need a joined-up approach that tackles the whole road, not just parts of it.” Despite the fact that highways are a County Council responsibility, there has been little visible action from the County Councillor representing Warndon Villages. “The County Council is responsible for highways,” added Cllr Rudge. “So why isn’t our County Councillor taking the lead on this? Residents are being let down.” Cllr Murray added: “Residents are rightly asking: what is actually being done to tackle this? We shouldn’t have to wait for a tragedy before something changes.” The councillors are calling for Warndon Villages to be included in all future A4440 safety discussions and for West Mercia Police to prioritise enforcement in the area before lives are put at risk.
Cllr Sarah Murray: “We Must Safeguard the Beating Hearts of Our Communities”
Following the Full Council meeting on July 8th, Cllr Sarah Murray, Liberal Democrat City Councillor for St Nicholas ward, called for urgent consideration of long-term funding for Worcester’s vital community centres, many of which have relied on temporary UKSPF grants that end next year. Cllr Murray said: “Community centres like Lyppard Hub and others across the city are the beating hearts of our neighbourhoods. They support families, older people, young people, and volunteers every single day — tackling isolation, supporting mental health, and providing spaces that nurture belonging. At tonight’s Council meeting, I asked the Leader to commit to a cross‑party discussion over the summer about how we can secure sustainable, long‑term funding for these vital spaces, especially as the UKSPF grants end. I also sought an assurance that the role and value of these centres will be clearly advocated for in any future talks about local government reorganisation. The response I received tonight gives me cautious optimism. I will continue to work with colleagues across the Council to make sure we have a strong, viable plan for the future of these vital services. Our community centres save the council money in the long run — they are an investment, not a cost. We owe it to our residents to protect and support them.” Cllr Murray, who is also a Trustee of Lyppard Community Centre in Warndon Villages, added: “I am grateful for the work of staff, volunteers and trustees across the city who make spaces like Lyppard Hub so welcoming and inclusive. I will continue to advocate for their interests — and for the communities that rely on them every day.” The question was well received in the chamber. Cllr Denham affirmed Worcester City Council’s ongoing support for community centres across the city, acknowledging their crucial role in supporting local residents. While the details of future funding are not yet confirmed, she indicated that more clarity is expected by November, at which point the Council will work to ensure resources are directed where they are most needed. Although we cannot yet predict what a future unitary authority might look like, Cllr Denham was clear that, in its current form, Worcester City Council values and recognises the importance of our community centres.
Reform UK Urges Liberal Democrat Councillor to ‘Join and Become an MP’ During Public Exchange at National Conference
At this year’s Local Government Association (LGA) Conference in Liverpool, Reform UK director of local government Jaymey McIvor publicly encouraged Worcester City Councillor Jessie Jagger to “join Reform and become a Member of Parliament” — prompting a measured response from the Liberal Democrat group co-leader. The comment was made during a Q&A session following Mr McIvor’s speech in the main auditorium. Cllr Jagger addressed him directly, saying “I’m an immigrant and a British citizen – what are you going to do with me then?” McIvor replied: “Join Reform and become a Member of Parliament.” Cllr Jagger, who co-leads the Liberal Democrat group on Worcester City Council, said “I was surprised by the suggestion. My values have always been clear — I believe in fairness, decency, and politics that bring people together, not divide them. While the exchange was civil, it underlines how far removed Reform’s direction is from the kind of politics I stand for.” She continued “People are looking for serious leadership — rooted in integrity, not off-the-cuff remarks and grand gestures.” Cllr Jagger has previously spoken about her experience with the UK immigration system during Teresa May’s hostile policy. Her application for permanent settlement was initially rejected by the Home Office on the grounds that she had “failed to demonstrate sufficient knowledge of the English language and British culture” — despite submitting evidence that she was employed as an English teacher, held two undergraduate degrees (including a Law degree from a Russell Group university), and had a postgraduate degree from the University of Oxford. The rejection was due to an error and cost her over £1,000 to resolve. “It was a frustrating and dehumanising experience. It taught me how bureaucratic systems — especially when shaped by political hostility — can affect people who do their best to make a valuable contribution to society. I felt very vulnerable, so I have immense sympathy for asylum seekers who face a much more precarious reality.” Cllr Jagger previously stood for Parliament under her former name, Jessie Venegas, in Hammersmith during the 2019 General Election. In that election, she significantly outperformed the Brexit Party candidate, who lost their deposit. Shortly after, she was contacted by figures from the party inviting her to engage with their campaign. “That wasn’t the right fit then, and nothing has changed. I’m proud to represent a party that stands for constructive, inclusive and forward-looking politics — and that’s where I’ll stay. I cannot understand why Nigel’s party would want to recruit me. “ Cllr Jessie Jagger represents Claines Ward on Worcester City Council and serves as Co-Leader of the Liberal Democrat Group.
Worcester City Council Takes First Step Towards Tackling Mobile Signal Blackspots
At a full council meeting on Tuesday 9th July, councillors backed a motion brought by a Liberal Democrat Cllr Jessie Jagger calling for action to improve mobile phone connectivity in Worcester’s city centre. The motion, which was passed with cross-party support, recognises the serious gaps in mobile signal across parts of the city — particularly in historic areas such as The Shambles, New Street, and around The Hive and the Scala. These blackspots, which often go undetected in national coverage maps, affect local businesses, residents and visitors who rely on mobile phones for payments, navigation, and communication. The motion instructs the Council to work with Worcestershire County Council to use real-world signal data and explore local solutions. However, it stopped short of fully committing to looking into small cell technology— a low-cost, proven approach already being used successfully in cities like Westminster, the City of London and Sunderland. Cllr Jagger said “I’m pleased the council has recognised the importance of this issue, but we can’t stop here. The technology to fix this exists — it’s small-scale, it’s affordable, and in many cases, operators are willing to cover the costs. Other councils are already making it work. I want Worcester to be bold enough to explore this properly and not shy away from a practical solution.” The issue will now go to the Place and Economic Development Committee for further exploration. Cllr Jagger is calling on the committee to look seriously at small cell deployment using city-owned buildings like the Guildhall, car parks and the Scala — not just as a way to improve signal, but also to generate a modest income for the Council. She added “This is about leaving a lasting legacy. With less than two years left before the City Council is abolished, we need to use that time to do things that will genuinely improve the day-to-day experience of people in Worcester. Mobile connectivity is one of them — and we already have the tools to fix it.”
Worcester Lib Dem Councillor voices concerns after all trains to Birmingham cancelled
Worcester Lib Dem’s city Councillor Jessie Jagger has today shared her personal concerns after all trains to Birmingham New Street were cancelled today (Wed 2nd July). Rail services heading to the station were cancelled after West Midlands Railway reported damage to overhead cables, forcing mass cancellations. The services have faced a multitude of problems over the years, which brought Councillor Jagger to share her previous experience. Councillor Jagger said “I had to give up my job in Birmingham because the trains were just too unreliable — and I know I’m not the only one. Disruption like this happens all the time’ ‘The trains are expensive, and when things go wrong, trying to claim your money back is a nightmare. You’re made to jump through so many hoops that it feels designed to frustrate you into giving up.’ ‘Meanwhile, there’s never any real accountability. This broken system is holding our region back — it’s damaging to workers, businesses, and the wider economy.’ ‘People deserve a transport network they can rely on.” The Liberal Democrats want to establish Great British Railways as a single ‘guiding mind’, with local authority representation and democratic oversight, so councils and passengers can actually hold the railways to account. That means transparent performance data, local input into services and real consequences when standards fall short. It’s time our network served communities—reliably and responsibly.”
Much-Loved Spitfire at Perdiswell Play Area Takes Off Again After Refurbishment
Worcester City Council’s Minor Works Unit has completed a full refurbishment of the iconic Spitfire play equipment at Perdiswell Play Area, just in time for the school summer holidays. Originally installed in 2017 at a cost of £30,000, the bespoke aircraft-themed structure has become a favourite with local families. Thanks to the council’s maintenance team, it’s now been restored to its original condition — looking as good as new. Cllr Jessie Jagger, Leader of the Liberal Democrat Group, said: “The Spitfire is such a special feature at Perdiswell, and it’s lovely to see it looking brand new again. My daughter Lila is still a bit little for it, but I’m sure she’ll love watching the bigger kids play — and it won’t be long before she’s clambering on it too!” The Council continues to invest in play spaces across the city, recognising their importance for family life, wellbeing, and community enjoyment.
Beehive Relocation Brings Relief and Renewal for Local Residents – Residents are Buzzing!
Cllr Sarah Murray, Liberal Democrat City Councillor for St Nicholas ward in Warndon Villages and Worcester City Council’s Member Champion for Personal Safety and Civility in Public Office, has welcomed the successful resolution of a long-running issue involving 22 unmanaged beehives in a residential area of Warndon Villages. The hives, which had become a source of anxiety for nearby residents due to swarming, noise, and pollen accumulation, were peacefully and voluntarily removed earlier this spring following ongoing dialogue and support from local councillors and environmental officers. One resident described the change as transformative: “It really has felt like I have moved to a new home. I now have bumblebees, butterflies and an abundance of small birds in my garden. There’s no more noise, no more bees dying on the patio, and I can sit outside without fear. It has made a huge difference to my wellbeing.” Cllr Murray said: “This was a complex and sensitive issue that required patient engagement and a calm, fact-based approach. I’m grateful to residents for the trust they placed in me, and to officers who worked behind the scenes to support a respectful outcome. I’m particularly pleased that residents are now able to enjoy their gardens again — and that the relocation has supported a healthier, more balanced ecosystem for pollinators in the area.” Cllr Murray also acknowledged that while some have raised concerns about the removal of the hives, the decision was rooted in a balanced understanding of both environmental and community wellbeing. “As someone with a long-standing commitment to environmental causes, I understand better than most how vital pollinators are to our ecosystems. But like any ecological intervention, location and management matter. When hives are left unmanaged in dense residential areas, they can create risks — not just for residents but for the bees themselves. Good environmentalism isn’t about slogans. It’s about thoughtful, proportionate decisions that protect people and nature in tandem. That means working with residents — not ignoring them — to find the right solutions for the right places.” The outcome, she said, demonstrates that it’s possible to uphold environmental values while still listening to those directly affected. Cllr Murray, who also serves as Chair of the City Council’s Standards Committee, added: “This is a reminder of how local democracy works best: through listening, problem-solving, and respectful collaboration.” No enforcement action was ultimately required, as the beekeeper agreed to remove the hives voluntarily before the Council’s abatement deadline. Ongoing monitoring will ensure any future changes are managed appropriately.
Barbourne Works: Councillor urges continued support as phased return announced
Cllr Jessie Jagger has welcomed the announcement of a possible phased return for ground and first floor residents at Barbourne Works following the recent evacuation, but says support must continue for those still unable to return home. “While it’s positive that some residents may soon be able to return, many still face huge uncertainty. I want to thank everyone involved so far, but we must keep working together to ensure clear communication, safe accommodation, and practical help until all residents can return home safely.” Anne Eason, one of the residents’ spokespeople, added “We’re really pleased that progress is being made and that some of our neighbours are hopeful they can return. But for many, the uncertainty continues. We hope the companies involved will keep working with us to find solutions and provide the clarity and support we all need during this difficult time.” A dedicated council webpage has now been set up to provide residents with the latest updates and guidance: 👉 https://www.worcester.gov.uk/housing/support-and-guidance-for-barbourne-works-apartments-residents A dedicated FirstPort phone line is also available for building-related queries: 📞 0333 321 4080 ENDS
