Manda Rigby, the councillor responsible for Bath and North East Somerset Council’s liveable neighbourhoods, has sounded a warning about the damaging effects of deliberate disinformation on public trust as she shifts roles within the council.
Since 2021, Rigby, representing Bathwick for the Liberal Democrats, has managed the highways portfolio, making her one of the council’s most visible figures. Her tenure saw significant initiatives, including the integration of Park and Ride services, introduction of emissions-based parking, implementation of new resident parking zones and liveable neighbourhood projects, the establishment of Bath’s city centre security “ring of steel,” and successful lobbying to restrict heavy goods vehicles from using Bath as a shortcut.
Despite these gains, Rigby noted a troubling undercurrent: “There is a general lack of trust in all politicians and a willingness to disbelieve what they say. This is stoked and fuelled by those who spread deliberate misinformation to sow discord and disharmony.” She stressed that while the council has made remarkable progress—doubling footway investment, enhancing pothole repairs, streamlining services through tools like Fix My Street, and generating substantial revenue—the communication of these achievements has not been as effective.
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As she assumes a new cabinet role focused on communications and civic services, Rigby intends to prioritize transparent and proactive engagement with the community. She acknowledged the challenge posed by disinformation but emphasized a strategic shift towards fact-checking and highlighting the council’s positive impact.
This change in portfolio comes as part of a broader reshuffle within the Liberal Democrat-led council cabinet. New members Joel Hirst and Lucy Hodge now oversee sustainable transport strategy and delivery, respectively. Ian Halsall leads environmental and waste services, Fiona Gourley manages sustainable transport and rural concerns, and Tim Ball transitions to chair of the planning committee.
Council leader Kevin Guy underscored the administration’s achievements, citing low council tax, affordable housing development, award-winning recycling programs, and increased funding for environmental initiatives and support for vulnerable residents. He condemned political forces that foster division and praised the council’s commitment to community unity, transparency, and practical governance. Celebrating Rigby’s new communication portfolio, he highlighted the importance of effective resident engagement.
Labour opposition leader Robin Moss acknowledged the value in the council’s emphasis on collaboration and delivery during turbulent times, while pledging scrutiny of the cabinet’s work.