Environment
Environment
To create a district of opportunity – a place where our communities can thrive, our people prosper and our environment is cherished for all to enjoy.
Priority 1
Protect and enhance our built and natural environments across the district, providing good access to open spaces and increasing biodiversity.
| Title | Outcome | End Date |
|---|---|---|
| Deliver improvements to identified play areas across the district | Play areas that have been identified for refurbishment will incorporate inclusive play equipment that improves play value for individuals of all ages. | March 2028 |
| Develop and submit a Tree Strategy for Council approval | Strategic framework for tree protection, planting, and management, aligning with national policy and local priorities. | December 2026 |
| Consider the implementation of a Public Spaces Protection Order to address dog fouling in open spaces across the district | Reduction in dog fouling. Increased public confidence in the cleanliness and safety of the district’s open spaces. Clear and consistent enforcement framework established. |
March 2028 |
Priority 2
Continue to deliver a cohesive and integrated response to climate change adaptation and mitigation.
| Title | Outcome | End Date |
|---|---|---|
| Continue to deliver initiatives and actions outlined in the Councils Climate Change Action Plan | Tangible progress towards achieving as far as practically possible carbon neutral by 2030. | March 2028 |
| Collaborate and engage with Local Authorities to review and improve energy efficiency across all council-owned estates. | Stronger inter-council partnerships for joint projects and funding opportunities. Lower energy costs through shared solutions. |
March 2028 |
| Support community groups and Parish Councils to plant trees across the district though the Community Tree Planting Scheme | Parish Councils and Community Organisations have access to trees for planting. | March 2027 |
Priority 3
Support residents and businesses to reduce their carbon footprint and be more resilient to climate related impacts.
| Title | Outcome | End Date |
|---|---|---|
| Develop new allotment sites at Great Notley Country Park | Residents have access to communal spaces for home-grown produce reducing the carbon impact of imported goods. Handover of allotment site to Great Notley Parish Council. |
March 2027 |
| Continue providing support to residents through energy efficiency initiatives delivered via the Green Doctor Service, Handyman scheme and other government-backed schemes. | Residents are supported to reduce energy consumption and lower household bills. Vulnerable households benefit from available schemes and local support. |
March 2028 |
Priority 4
Improve the way that we manage waste and encourage residents and businesses to reduce, reuse and recycle more.
| Title | Outcome | End Date |
|---|---|---|
| Implement new household waste collection arrangements | Compliance with the Governments waste reforms (Simpler Recycling). Divert as much waste as possible from landfill and increase recycling |
June 2026 |
| Work with other Authorities including Essex County Council to develop and deliver waste minimisation and recycling initiatives that deliver on the requirements of the Waste Reforms and Essex Waste Strategy | Influence and change attitudes and behaviours to reduce waste, reuse and recycle. | March 2028 |