A note from your Clerk – Wickhambrook Parish Council Takes a Stand for Climate Action: Urges MP Matt Hancock’s Support for the Climate and Ecology Bill
As global concerns about the environment intensify, local communities are stepping up to make a difference. In an inspiring move towards proactive environmental stewardship, the Wickhambrook Parish Council has taken a bold step by advocating for the crucial Climate and Ecology Bill in Parliament.
The Council, recognizing the pressing need for stronger legislative action to address climate change and ecological degradation, recently penned a letter to our local Member of Parliament, Matt Hancock, urging his support for the Climate and Ecology Bill. This pivotal legislation seeks to institute a comprehensive framework to combat the escalating climate crisis and safeguard our planet’s biodiversity.
The Climate and Ecology Bill proposes ambitious measures aimed at mitigating the impacts of climate change and preserving the natural world for future generations. Some of its key provisions include:
- Setting binding targets to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2030.
- Protecting and restoring natural habitats, crucial for biodiversity conservation.
- Prioritizing environmental justice and sustainability across policies and practices.
The Council’s decision to advocate for this bill underscores the community’s commitment to environmental sustainability and the well-being of both current and future residents. Your voice was considered in your responses to the household survey which kickstarted our work to develop a Neighbourhood Plan, and informed many of the policies and community actions which have been built into it, including:
| Policy | Community Action |
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Policy WHB 4 – Low Energy and Energy Efficient Housing Design Proposals that incorporate current best practice in energy conservation will be supported… |
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Policy WHB 7 – Farm Diversification Applications for new employment uses of redundant traditional farm buildings and other rural buildings will be supported, providing it has been demonstrated that they are no longer viable or needed for farming… |
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Policy WHB 9 – Biodiversity and Habitats Development proposals should avoid the loss of, or substantial harm to, trees, hedgerows and other natural features such as ponds and watercourses…. |
COMMUNITY ACTION 2 – WILDLIFE AND CONSERVATION The Parish Council will work with the Wickhambrook Estates Committee and interested parishioners in order to sustain and improve the natural environment in and around the village…. |
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Policy WHB 13 – Sustainable Construction Practices For all appropriate development, proposals that incorporate current best practice in energy conservation will be supported where such measures are designed to be integral to the building design and minimise any detrimental impact on the building or its surroundings |
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Policy WHB 14 – Flooding and Sustainable Drainage Proposals for new development, or the intensification of existing development, in Flood Zones 2 and 3 should be accompanied by a Flood Risk Assessment and will not be permitted, unless the applicant has satisfied the safety requirements in the Flood Risk National Planning Policy Guidance (and any successor)… |
COMMUNITY ACTION 5 – ALLOTMENTS AND COMMUNITY GARDENS The Parish Council will work with developers and parishioners to explore options for providing family allotments or community growing spaces in the village |
As residents of Wickhambrook, here’s how you can contribute:
- Stay Informed: Find out more about the Climate and Ecology Bill and its potential impact on our community and the environment.
- Engage Locally: Participate in community discussions and initiatives that promote sustainability and environmental consciousness – take a look at our Draft Neighbourhood Plan and Community Actions and respond to our consultation survey
- Voice Your Support: Consider reaching out to our MP, Matt Hancock, to express your support for the Climate and Ecology Bill.
- Adopt Sustainable Practices: Implement eco-friendly habits in your daily life, such as reducing waste, conserving energy, and supporting local sustainable businesses.
By supporting this legislation, Wickhambrook Parish Council aims to play an active role in shaping a more resilient and environmentally conscious future. Let’s pave the way for a brighter, more sustainable future, right here in Wickhambrook!