Decision details

RESOLVED:

1.    That the Cabinet:-

(a)  endorse the Strategic Actions set out in the Action Plan 2022-23;

(b)  endorse the approach set out in the report for the development of a Climate Change and Nature Emergency Strategy and Action Plan 2023-2028;

(c)   agree that the Action Plan is reviewed by Cabinet on an annual basis; and

(d)  agree the principle of creating a permanent Climate Change role noting the likelihood of required dedicated supporting resource as outlined within the body of the report.

2.    That the Cabinet recommend to Council that the governance arrangements outlined in the report be endorsed, with relevant issues being addressed through each Overview and Scrutiny Panel and the establishment of a cross-cutting officer board to oversee delivery.

REASONS FOR DECISION:

As set out in the report.

KEY DECISION:

Yes.  Report to Cabinet and Full Council.

PORTFOLIO:

Leader.

ALTERNATIVE OPTIONS CONSIDERED/REJECTED:

As set out in the report.

DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST(S):

None.

DISCUSSION:

The Leader introduced the report and referred to the Council’s declaration of a Climate Change and Nature Emergency in October 2021, which set the direction for the action plan.  Significant work from Council officers in partnership with the climate team at Hampshire County Council had taken place.

The Cabinet acknowledged the significant work the Council had already progressed on the sustainability agenda and the action plan would provide an opportunity to demonstrate this work, collect more data and evidence and drive further improvements.

With the cost of living increasing, and issues such as insulation becoming ever more important, it was time for the Council to move in a balanced way to further the sustainability agenda and act as community leaders for positive behaviours across the District.

A number of Members welcomed the action plan and spoke of the ongoing work of the Council’s Greener Housing Task and Finish Group which looked at a range of sustainability issues for the Council’s own housing, including air sourced heat pumps.  A balance between good quality, sustainable housing at the right cost would need to be struck to ensure the Council’s ambitions in the wider Housing Strategies could be delivered.

The Leader of the Opposition welcomed the report and the commitment to bring forward dedicated resource to support the implementation of the action plan.  It was highlighted that the delivery of the action plan would be the key to the success of the Council’s declaration of a Climate Change and Nature Emergency.

The Leader summarised and highlighted the 2050 net zero commitment shared by all the main political parties in the United Kingdom.  The Council would now need to focus on what is right for the UK, the New Forest and in accordance with the emerging Government position with regard to climate, nature and sustainability.