Decision details

Simon Bevan, Director of Planning and Councillor Johnson Situ, Cabinet Member for Growth, Development and Planning presented the report. Juliet Seymour, Planning Policy Manager contributed to the discussion, where the following points were made.

·  There is an emphasis on encouraging carbon to be dealt with ‘on site’. Where this is not possible a Carbon Offset fee is paid by developers.

·  A review is underway to see if a ton of carbon can be saved for the offset price of £60; which is likely to be increased to at least £90.

·  The Carbon Offset policy will be linked to the Climate Emergency Strategy.

·  Social justice is at the heart of this,  with funding being used to address fuel poverty, for example LED lights in estates.

·  The council has been collecting Carbon Offsets for several years, with 1.5 million already received and more expected.

·  Modern homes are much more efficient. Retrofitting homes will be important and the Carbon Offset funds could be used for this.

·  Planning is working to improve energy statements and working with a consultancy to do this.

·  The district heating system is not online yet for Old Kent Road developments to connect to, but this is anticipated.

·  Members emphasised the importance and urgency of this work given the Climate Emergency.