Lib Dems win boost for energy efficient homes

At a Full meeting of Rugby Borough Council on 2 February 2021, Liberal Democrat Councillors put forward an amendment to the Draft Housing Revenue Account Capital and Revenue Budgets 2021/22 and Medium-Term Financial Plan 2021-25 to look at improving the energy efficiency of our housing stock and plant more trees on Council land.

The amendment in full:

This council adopted a Climate Change Emergency considering this and the significant part our housing stock can play in helping to reduce the carbon footprint of the Council we request that the following action is taken forward:

1. That the capital programme is reviewed by a cross party group as a matter of urgency with special regard to what actions can be taken regarding the Climate Emergency motion that this council adopted, for example gas boiler replacement programme.

and

2. A tree planting programme along with increased planting for biodiversity that maximises the use of all the land under housing control be implemented, ensuring that where possible existing trees are fully protected.

Mover Cllr Jerry Rooodhouse (Paddox)

Seconder Cllr Noreen New (Paddox)

The amendment was amended by the Conservative Group for the capital programme to be reviewed by the Climate Emergency Working Group. The substantive motion was approved.

Commenting, Councillor Jerry Roodhouse, Group Leader of the Liberal Democrats on Rugby Borough Council, said:

"It's important that we recognise and thank the work and dedication of Rugby Borough Council staff and communities in dealing with the pandemic.

"In terms of the medium-term financial plan there are tough times ahead and ultimately more money will need to be provided from central government to support our Borough.

"There are over 3,000 houses within Rugby Borough Council's stock, and they all need to be looked at in terms of energy efficiency and how we can introduce new measures to help people. It's also important that the Council utilises its green spaces and land for tree planting and biodiversity as there is a clear link between improving homes and our environment."