Public survey on borough's climate plans launched

Reading Borough Council is aiming to become a net zero borough

A local authority is asking for help from the public in forming its policies relating to climate change.

Reading Climate Action Network (ReadingCAN) has launched a public survey in collaboration with Reading Borough Council to help form the town's climate strategy.

The current Reading Climate Emergency Strategy is due to end in 2025, with an updated plan being drafted to last until 2030.

Aiming to set out the borough's pathway to net zero, the consultation responses will be reviewed in September by the group drafting the plan.

The survey is part of a wider ReadingCAN plan of action to boost public engagement in creating the new strategy.

Heather Marshall, Co-chair of ReadingCAN, said: “This year is all about bringing people together from different sectors and policy areas to tackle systemic challenges.

"Collaboration and co-ordinated climate action is now crucial if we want to continue our excellent track record for emissions reduction in Reading."

Alongside the survey, schemes to engage community groups and young people have also been launched.

The Designing a Net Zero Reading group is currently drawing up a very early set of potential priorities.

John Ennis, lead councillor for climate strategy and transport, said: “I would encourage everyone who lives, works or studies in Reading, and organisations, to take part in this engagement process in whatever way they can so we can move forward together urgently with the next stage of tackling the climate emergency.”

The survey closes on 5 September, with the responses then being put to the Designing a Net Zero Reading group.