Council signs county-wide statement to tackle climate change through planning policy

Cannock Chase Council has reinforced its commitment to combating climate change by joining a Staffordshire-wide statement focused on addressing climate change through proactive planning policies.

The decision was formally approved at last week’s Cabinet meeting, marking a significant step toward achieving net zero emissions across the county by 2050.

The joint statement, supported by district and borough councils across Staffordshire, aims to integrate climate change considerations into local plan policies, providing a unified approach to help the county meet its environmental goals.

With the planning system playing a vital role in reducing emissions across various sectors, this is expected to facilitate the transition to a low-carbon future.

The shared statement encourages all participating local planning authorities to align their policies with the county’s climate objectives, utilising the shared Staffordshire-wide climate evidence base and following the policy recommendations.

These policies were first outlined in a 2020 study, and all signatory authorities, including Cannock Chase Council, are committed to exploring and implementing these recommendations within their Local Plans.

As part of the Council’s emerging Local Plan 2018-2040, several policies have been outlined to ensure Cannock Chase contributes to the region’s net zero goals:

• Supporting the provision of sustainable transport and communications infrastructure.
• Protecting and enhancing the natural environment.
• Promoting a greener, more sustainable future for Cannock Chase.

The Local Plan is a critical tool for driving the Council’s commitment to address the impacts of climate change. 

Key measures include reducing greenhouse gas emissions, minimising energy use, maximising low-carbon energy production, setting enhanced sustainable construction standards, and conserving natural environments and habitats.

Councillor Maureen Freeman (pictured), Regeneration and High Streets Portfolio Leader, said:
“The planning system can play a crucial role in reducing emissions.

“This statement complements the Council’s climate change agenda and has been endorsed by the Staffordshire Sustainability Board.

“By working together, we can implement the necessary changes to make Cannock Chase more environmentally sustainable and contribute to Staffordshire’s shared goal of net zero by 2050.

“Cannock Chase Council is proud to be a signatory to this climate change agreement, working in partnership with authorities across Staffordshire to build a cleaner, greener future for all.”