The results of Watford’s biggest ever public consultation on the sustainable future of the town show that over 94 per cent of respondents want to reduce their carbon footprint and 88 per cent of people support the council’s 2030 net-zero carbon target.
Over the summer, Watford Borough Council asked residents, businesses, and interest groups how they would go about tackling Watford’s commitment to reduce the carbon footprint.
The results will help shape a new Sustainability Action Plan, which will require making big changes to the way we all live, travel and work.
More than 297 responses were received, with 49 per cent agreeing that the council is ‘doing a lot to improve the sustainability of the town’.
Respondents rated the Beryl bike share scheme as most beneficial to the environment followed by home insulation schemes.
Barriers to more sustainable behaviour included lack of infrastructure and facilities, lack of money, lack of public transport.
Nature and biodiversity are important to 90 per cent of people with 60 per cent of respondents using Watford’s green spaces several times a week.
People want to see more trees, wildflower meadows, wildflower verges, green spaces, cycle routes, nature trails and walks, less litter, less development.
Chair of the Sustainability Forum, councillor Ian Stotesbury said: “A key part of the Sustainability Action Plan looks at people power – harnessing the energy and drive of residents to make changes on a local level and the survey provides the council with valuable information on the type of schemes which the public think might be effective. The ongoing forum will continue to steer and feedback on the council’s plans.”
Cllr Tim Williams, cabinet member for sustainability said: “We received some terrific ideas from the survey for improving the sustainability of the town including introducing electric taxis, refill shops, more cycle routes, more EV charging points, a building materials reuse scheme, meat-free and car-free days, eco-homes and so much more – a big thank you to everyone who took part.”
To get involved and find out more on the town’s sustainable plan and projects, visit watford.gov.uk/sustainablewatford
0 Comments