Issue - meetings

This note highlights proposed items scheduled in the work programme for the Cabinet Panel on the Environment for 2023/24. The Work Programme below sets out the proposed topics for the 2023/24 Civic Year.

The Policy and Strategy Team Leader provided a verbal update on the Work Programme for the 2023/24 civic year.

Audio recording – 5:10

The Policy and Strategy Team Leader gave a verbal presentation and advised:

·       The report highlighted the proposed items scheduled in the work programme for the 2023/24 civic year.

·       The proposed themes for the Panels this year would be Work Programme and Water in July, Sustainable Development in September, Waste in December and Achievements in March 2024.

·       The Action Tracker was currently under review by the Policy Team and would be brought to the September meeting to highlight any changes.

·       North Herts Council was leading on the Biodiversity Strategic Action Plan for the Herts Climate Change Sustainability Partnership (HCCSP). It was currently under review by the sub-group to take into account actions to date.

·       The second round of the Solar Together Scheme would open for registrations in August until October.

·       Work was being done on a Climate Risk Log. This would identify risks to Council Services and the wider district from Climate impacts, and actions that could be taken.

·       The second round of Home Upgrade Grants was currently being worked on, which would allow for eligible households to apply for retrofitting measures. This round would be available for off-gas properties, properties rated EPC D to G and those who had an income of less than £31k per year.

·       London Luton Airport Documents were being reviewed which covered climate resilience, green-control growth, infrastructure and air quality.

·       The Climate Hive continued to provide residents with updates on bee corridors, wildflower areas, events and green courses.

·       Work was ongoing to align the Climate and Environmental goals with planning projects such as the Baldock Expansion.

In response to a question at the last meeting from Councillor Chris Hinchliff, the Policy and Strategy Team Leader advised that iChoosr was monitoring the investigation into forced labour allegations in the Global Solar Supply Chain. iChoosr were a Member of Solar Energy UK and were signed up to the UK Solar Energy Supply Chain Treatment.