Issue - meetings

In accordance with Council Procedure Rule 10, to consider motions on notice from Members.

(A) Motion from Councillor Rob Hiney-Saunders – Climate Emergency/Flooding

In accordance with Council Procedure Rule 10, Councillors were able to submit Motions on Notice for consideration at meetings of Council.

a) The following motion was submitted for consideration by Councillor Rob Hiney-Saunders

Climate Emergency and Flooding

Following the flooding on 19th/20th October that affected Clowne, Pinxton and other areas within the district, Bolsover Labour Group recognises the role climate change plays in the increasing frequency of extreme storms that trigger such events. Furthermore we recognise that a pro-active approach by all councils and statutory bodies can help protect us against these events.

Climate change will impact many council services. For example extended growing seasons and later falls of leaves will put additional pressure on our teams keeping our streets tidy and safe. It is imperative that we adapt to these impacts.

Conversely council services will impact climate change. For example energy efficiency within our housing stock and the availability of electric car charging spaces within our parking estate. It is imperative that we play our part in mitigating climate change.

In the light of the above Bolsover District Council hereby declares a Climate Emergency and consequently will:

1.       Work with all authorities, Parish Councils and statutory authorities to ensure emergency arrangements are more effective for future flooding events.

2.       Proactively support maintenance and other flood prevention work required to reduce the impact of such events on residents and businesses within the District.

3.       Review processes and procedures across the Council to ensure that their climate change effects are understood and are measurable - with a view to adapting to the changing climate and maximising our own climate change mitigation measures.

The Motion was moved by Councillor Rob Hiney-Saunders and seconded by Councillor Duncan McGregor. 

On being put to the vote the Motion was carried.

RESOLVED that the council hereby declares a Climate Emergency and consequently will (1) work with all authorities, Parish Councils and statutory authorities to ensure emergency arrangements are more effective for future flooding events.

(2)       Proactively support maintenance and other flood prevention work required to reduce the impact of such events on residents and businesses within the District.

(3)      Review processes and procedures across the Council to ensure that their climate change effects are understood and are measurable - with a view to adapting to the changing climate and maximising our own climate change mitigation measures.

(Strategic Director of Services / Service Director Executive, Corporate Services and Partnerships)