Issue - meetings

To consider Theme 3, Climate Change

The Principal Urban Designer presented a report on the comments received on the third consultation theme.

The third theme was on the topic of “Climate Change” and was discussed by the Community Stakeholder Forum on 9 December. Following the Forum, the theme was open for public consultation, and in the first four weeks, 31 responses had been received.

Members discussed the findings of the ongoing consultation and the following was noted:

• Members debated the value of the representations which had been received and considered that it was their role to think strategically and utilise all representations received to do so.
• Land use was identified as a key theme. Members acknowledged that Uttlesford had the largest area of agricultural land in Essex and they discussed the need for farming practices to be carried out with minimum environmental impact. It was noted the importance of working collaboratively with farmers in developing policies in order to understand the changes and challenges within the agricultural industry.
• It was debated that the Council’s parking standards contradicted efforts to encourage less vehicular use as parking provisions were required in every new development. Some members argued that it was necessary for new residential developments to offer parking due to Uttlesford being a primarily rural district with restricted access to public transport.
• Should the new local plan seek to develop more sustainable energy infrastructure, such as solar farms, there would need to be careful consideration in ensuring minimal impact upon the countryside and alternative solutions must be looked at.

During discussion, Councillor Pepper highlighted the new Interim Climate Change Planning Policy and its role in helping to tackle climate change. She agreed to forward her thoughts about the five key priority themes in tackling climate change to members.

Councillor Freeman also agreed to circulate a BBC Radio 4 article about the carbon footprint of food supply to the group.

Officers highlighted that the process is finding a balance by working strategically with organisations such as the Essex Climate Change Commission and locally with residents through the consultation.

Councillor Pavitt arrived at 19:41

Councillor Light left the meeting at 19:30 and Councillor Lees left the meeting at 19:44

The meeting closed at 20:21