East Suffolk Council continues to put the environment first as it approves new guidance which tackles the impact development can have on the environment.
The aim of the Environmental Guidance Note is to support East Suffolk Council’s environmental vision in building the right environment for East Suffolk and its commitment to be carbon neutral by 2030. It was produced after the Council voted unanimously to declare a climate emergency last year in a bid to reduce its own carbon emissions and to encourage local communities to help fight climate change.
The Guidance Note was approved by East Suffolk Council at Full Council on Wednesday 25 November 2020 and will now play a key role in supporting the Council’s green commitments.
It provides simple, concise information on best practices for reducing the impact on the environment in any new developments or renovations and measures to help achieve this, including energy efficiency, renewable energy, nature and wildlife, sustainable travel, water conservation, materials and waste and more. The Guidance Note can be used to inform the design of new developments, renovation of existing buildings, design and access statements, Neighbourhood Plans, comments made on planning applications, general household maintenance and much more.
Cllr James Mallinder, cabinet member for the Environment, said: “I am so pleased that the Environmental Guidance Note has been approved by East Suffolk Council as it will give developers and communities a strong direction on addressing climate change in developments and renovations going forward.
“We are the first generation to fully understand our environmental problems and we will be the last who can act. This Guidance Note clearly illustrates what we can achieve, and even the smallest of changes can make a big difference over time.”
Cllr David Ritchie, cabinet member for Planning, said: “I am pleased that the Environmental Guidance Note has been approved by the Council as we are committed to encourage both developers and residents to take a greener approach to both existing accommodation and new developments.”
View the Environmental Guidance Note at www.eastsuffolk.gov.uk/environment/environment-guidance-note/
