County Tories called to account on Climate Change

5.06.51pm BST (GMT +0100) Wed 26th Jul 2006

The Liberal Democrat Group on Surrey County Council have called on the Council's ruling Conservative administration to take urgent action to reduce Surrey's impact on climate change, publishing a plan by the end of 2006. In a lively debate held at Full Council on 25th July, members from across the chamber joined the Liberal Democrats in calling on the Executive to show leadership in formulating a plan of action to combat climate change.

Lib Dem Environment Spokesperson Sarah Di Caprio (Guildford South East), who proposed the motion, said that Surrey had failed in its leadership role on climate change to date, "lagging woefully behind" other authorities. "It's all very well the Executive listing areas where they feel they've made a contribution to leading the way in climate change and how we can look at ways of managing the impact, but there is no timetable for action," she said. "As an authority, Surrey signed up to the Aarlborg Charter & Commitments on sustainability a few years ago, but we've seen precious little evidence of following those commitments - we certainly don't hear about it on a regular basis. That's what we're calling for - a definitive plan that will reduce our 'ecological footprint' and give a clear timetable for action."

Lib Dem group leader Hazel Watson (Dorking Hills) said her party had been calling for well over 10 years through motions and select committees, for action. "Energy efficiency of council buildings is one area where the Council could make a real contribution and we just don't feel enough is being done," she said. For example, the full time post of Energy Officer, which would investigate ways of saving energy, was removed under the Business Delivery Review."

Diana Smith (Knaphill) asked why Surrey was so outshone by Woking when it came to tackling climate change. "It isn't just reducing CO2 to help tackle the global problem," she said. "Woking's measures, like the photovoltaic cells on the roof of Brock Hill Sheltered Accommodation in Goldsworth Park, will help keep power reaching those most vulnerable in any future energy shortages or cuts. A lot of effort, creative energy and money has gone into the Business Delivery Review in the last year. If we could bring the same determined effort to bear on Climate Change, Surrey could have a real impact on what the future holds for Surrey residents. For now, they are trailing behind Woking in both vision and the determination to make it reality."