With the Government’s planned £6 billion cuts to public services, users of local council services face a bleak outlook ahead. It’s not surprising some prominent Labour MPs were keen to scupper any prospects of a “progressive” coalition, preferring a period in opposition.

There are parallels with what happened locally after the 2007 elections, where the Labour group declined proposals for a “rainbow” executive, preferring to see a minority Lib-Dem administration which they continue to denigrate.

The tables could well be turned in 2011: Lib Dems complaining about inadequate Labour Government funding replaced by Labour struggling to manage drastic “inherited” cuts, driven by a Lib-Con Government.

Obviously each party will fight to win more council seats, but whichever combination of parties run the council, I would like to see them putting their heads together more to solve the challenges for the city, rather than always point scoring on the failings of the current administration.

More Green councillors in 2011 would ensure key issues such an ageing population, recycling, visionary sustainable design, tackling traffic and protecting our heritage are not overwhelmed by blame culture from the politicians and a demoralised, disillusioned electorate.

Coun Andy D’Agorne, Leader Green group, City of York Council, Broadway West, York.