Issue - meetings

A report is attached on the Bath and North East Somerset Environmental Sustainability Partnership – Vision Statement.

The Chairman explained that the Cabinet Member for Transport and Environment Councillor Mark Shelford would propose this Vision Statement to full Council in July and that it arose from the Sustainability Partnership and has cross party support.

Jane Wildblood - Corporate and Community Sustainability Manager introduced the report and explained that the vision is a high level strategic statement of intent and that delivery would be through a range of partnerships and action plans.

The Panel asked the following questions and made the following points:

Councillor Gilchrist congratulated the officer. He asked for a breakdown of the 155% renewable energy figure – the officer explained that it was largely Bath and West Community Energy.

Councillor Turner asked about energy provision and power storage. The officer explained that a local strategy was being developed for the West of England which was looking at how to manage supply and demand.

Councillor Samuel stated that he supported the vision and felt that the Council should be at the forefront and lead by example.

Councillor Evans stated that he supported the vision and asked if there were any other charging points (other than Bath and Keynsham). The officer explained that Go Ultra Low West were funding projects and were mapping where to put charging points.

Councillor Hale asked for assurance that there was not an intention to build lots of solar farms on fields. The Cabinet Member stated that he could not give such assurance but agreed with the view. He hoped that it would be possible to put solar panels in car parks and park and rides.

Councillor Anketell Jones stated that procurement was a significant activity and asked if sustainability was part of the criteria and could the profile be raised. The Officer explained that there was a sustainability procedure in the procurement process but there could be a further conversation about the new national strategy.

Councillor Bull stated that he was delighted with the vision.