For the first time, the two Councils will be setting out their shared ambitions to reduce carbon emissions and to prepare for the impacts of changing weather patterns across South Warwickshire.

The proposals include a joined programme of work to develop a Climate Change Action Programme (CCAP) covering the whole of South Warwickshire and commitment to delivering many of the recommendations brought forward by the People’s Inquiry into Climate Change.

Warwick District Council’s Portfolio Holder for Climate Change, Councillor Alan Rhead said:

“The effects of the pandemic and postponement and subsequent cancellation of the referendum have in no way dampened the commitment we made in 2019 to tackle climate change. We have already achieved a great deal, but the scale of the task facing the Councils, our partners and our communities means that we will now have to redouble our efforts. We are in a great place to do that, not least thanks to the amazing work undertaken by the 30 representatives who took part in the People’s Inquiry on Climate Change, whose report details the priorities of local people.”

“We are looking forward to working on this jointly with Stratford-on-Avon District Council and firmly believe that by combining our resources we have a much greater chance to achieve our shared goal to facilitate decarbonisation across both districts to as close to zero as possible.”

Stratford-on-Avon District Council’s Portfolio Holder, Cllr Ian Shenton said:

“Reducing carbon emission and preparing locally for the impacts of a changing climate is a priority for the Council. Climate change is with us now, we therefore need to refocus our efforts to ensure we play our part alongside our communities, partners and businesses across our districts. In setting these ambitions, I look forward to working with colleagues from Warwick District Council to put in place practical actions that will make a real difference for South Warwickshire.”

Further information on the process, findings and response to the recommendations of Warwick District’s People’s Inquiry on Climate Change and the Councils’ report on their combined Climate Change Ambitions can be viewed on the Warwick District Council website.