Appendix 1: Biodiversity and Climate Change Action Plan Implementation Status
The following table breaks down the status of each action in the Biodiversity and Climate Change Action Plan and details the Relevant PAC and Executive Portfolio Holder, the responsible officers, the previous status of the action in November 2022 (if applicable following the changes to the action plan’s annual review), and the updated status for each action as of June 2023. There are a total of 38 Actions across the Biodiversity and Climate Change action plan.
|
Number of Actions |
|
|
Yet to commence / Delayed |
9 |
|
Being Investigated |
11 |
|
Planning and Development |
7 |
|
Being Implemented |
9 |
|
Complete and being monitored |
2 |
|
Action |
Portfolio Holder and PAC |
Responsible Officer |
Timescale |
November 2022 Update |
June 2023 Update |
Key Performance Indicator |
Status |
|
Action 1.1 Update the Integrated Transport Strategy, and work towards a Local Cycling and Walking Infrastructure Plan to prioritise walking, cycling, public transport, and electric vehicles. |
Councillor Paul Cooper
Planning, Infrastructure, And Economic Development Policy Advisory Committee |
Alison Broom
William Cornall
Rob Jarman
Phil Coyne
Claire Weeks
Mark Egerton
Helen Garnett |
2023-24 |
The Local Plan Review (LPR) is currently undergoing examination in public.
Annual Monitoring Report indicators are reported in the autumn.
Work has stared on Design and Sustainability Development Plan Document which will build on LPR policies in relation to sustainable movement. |
KCC is working on a Local Transport Plan with public consultation due Summer 2023.
The national forecasting that Central Government draw from has recently changed to increase the forecast number of charge point sockets needed to meet demand. The previous target of 862 for Maidstone has increased to 1,447 (at a medium uptake scenario).
Officers are looking for potential locations to develop an electric car club pilot project. - Parking services have stated that the Medway Street carpark isn’t commercially viable, as a core Town Centre location it already sees high levels of turnover and by removing bays it would cost the Council a significant sum of money per annum. - Previous Park and Ride site, London Road still needs investigating for viability.
|
NA |
Yet to commence |
|
Action 1.2 Deliver policies that enable infrastructure for:
|
Councillor Paul Cooper
Planning, Infrastructure, And Economic Development Policy Advisory Committee |
Alison Broom
William Cornall
Rob Jarman
Phil Coyne
Claire Weeks
Mark Egerton
Helen Garnett |
2023-24 |
Annual Monitoring Report (AMR) indicators are reported in the autumn. |
The Design and Sustainability Development Plan Document (DPD) meets the National Standard and embeds the Council’s commitment to sustainability as a key component of all of our policy and strategy. The consultation stages are helping to influence and shape the DPD content which factors in the actions of the Biodiversity and Climate Change Action Plan. The Local Plan Review and the Design and Sustainability DPD, once adopted will be monitored and reported annually through the Authority Monitoring Report. That monitoring information will also inform the Biodiversity and Climate Change Action Plan.
From Authority Monitoring report 2021-22:
Indicator M48: Sustainable transport measures to support the growth identified in the Local Plan and as set out in the Integrated Transport Strategy and the Walking and Cycling Strategy. The projects remain on track to be delivered within the broad time periods identified within the Infrastructure Delivery Plan. Of the sustainable transport actions set out in the ITS, over half (55%) have been rated ‘green’ in terms of their delivery. 16% of the actions have been rated as ‘red’ in terms of delivery due to no progress being made or the projects have been delayed, similar to the previous reporting year. This is primarily a temporary anomaly caused by the knock-on effects of the Covid-19 global pandemic. As part of the Local Plan Review, the Integrated Transport Strategy will be reviewed
Indicator M50: Achievement of modal shift through: • No significant worsening of congestion as a result of development • Reduced long stay town centre car park usage • Improved ratio between car parking costs and bus fares |
Percentage change of low carbon transportation, active travel, and public transport |
Being Investigated |
|
Action 1.3 Identify low carbon transportation, active travel, and public transport indicators that align with strategic planning and monitor implementation of sustainable transport policies. |
Councillor Paul Cooper
Planning, Infrastructure, And Economic Development Policy Advisory Committee |
Alison Broom
William Cornall
Rob Jarman
Phil Coyne
Claire Weeks
Mark Egerton
Helen Garnett |
2023-24 |
|
No Update |
Percentage change of low carbon transportation, active travel, and public transport |
Yet to Commence |
|
Action 1.4 Deliver Policy that ensures sustainable travel, such as bike racks, pool cars, electric vehicle charging, active travel, is integrated into all Maidstone Borough Council construction of new buildings (offices, housing, leisure facilities) and building acquisitions.
|
Councillor John Perry
Corporate Services Policy Advisory Committee |
Mark Green
Katie Exon
|
When any new building is completed or purchased |
A comprehensive Decarbonisation Study is ongoing by APSE Energy which includes detailed energy trajectory and retrofitting options for 12 priority MBC buildings to ensure MBC’s NetZero 2030 commitment is completed. The study included options and viability of renewable energy generation, EV charging infrastructure at each MBC asset, including: 1. Maidstone House and the Link 2. The Archbishops Palace, gate house and carriage museum 3. Town Hall 4. The Museum 5. The Crematorium 6. Lockmeadow Shopping Centre 7. Cob Tree golf club 8. The Leisure Centre EV charge points will be installed at any viable location owned by MBC in line with retrofits / upgrades to said buildings in keeping with national government commitment.
Bike Racks have been installed at the Depot. |
No Update |
NA |
Yet to commence |
|
Action 1.5 Deliver an Electric Vehicle (EV) Strategy for the borough that provides sufficient EV charging infrastructure to support the transition to EVs and reduces range anxiety, with consideration of changing and new emerging technologies.
|
Councillor Paul Cooper
Planning, Infrastructure, And Economic Development Policy Advisory Committee |
Jen Stevens
Claire Weeks
|
2023-24 |
Parking Services team are developing a parking EV strategy for MBC car park assets. Which is data driven and currently shows the number of EV chargers provided by the council are meeting demand of EVs in Maidstone tow Centre.
A Kent County wide EV strategy is being investigated, with potential links to KCC ‘Connected Kirb / Kent 600 Plan’. A wider borough scale EV strategy is also needed for MBC to adhere to central Government recommendation for 300,000 public chargers needed as a minimum by 2030. Maidstone Borough’s share is approximately 862 EV charging points needed by 2030 (we currently have 65 publicly accessible ones).
|
Work is now underway with KCC’s Network Innovations Team to identify the opportunities in Maidstone to deliver on-street charging infrastructure in areas of the Town where residents are unlikely to have access to their own. A Kent Launch for KCC’s Connected Kerb Kent 600 Plan is due to take place at the end of June 2023.
An offer to join the Kent 600 project is still available from KCC, to increase Council car park charger provision without capital outlay, but this may conflict with the current Pod Point arrangement.
|
Number of Electric Vehicle Charging Points Installed |
Being Investigated |
|
Action 1.6 Facilitate a move to electric taxis by providing nine rapid charge points in total by 2025, and twelve rapid charge points by 2030. |
Councillor Paul Cooper
Planning, Infrastructure, And Economic Development Policy Advisory Committee
And
Councillor Claudine Russell
Communities, Leisure and Arts Policy Advisory Committee |
John Littlemore
Lorraine Neale
|
2023-25 |
In line with 2021 to 2024 projected taxi usage. Two 50kW electric chargers for taxi trade use only have been installed and are in operation in Maidstone Town Centre, Pudding Lane, ME14 1LN (x,y 575919, 155768). The chargers are restricted to E-Taxi only to increase confidence in EV charging and reduce disruption to business for the taxi trade. Over initial 3-month period (excluding April when chargers needed maintenance) 1434,79kWh equivalent to 334.507 kg of CO2e in car emissions has been reduced.
For 2024 and beyond projections additional sites are under investigations for additional rapid chargers for the taxi trade. |
KCC have offered to investigate delivering an additional taxi charger in the Borough as part of the KCC project, which delivered the charging point in Pudding Lane. Officers will investigate further taxi charger options (under the same contractual arrangements as Pudding Lane). |
Number of Electric Vehicle Charging Points Installed |
Being Investigated |
|
Action 1.7 Work with the taxi trade to find solutions to licencing that will encourage gradual business led shift to EVs’ and promote greener accreditation and campaigns to support taxi trade to move to EVs. |
Councillor Paul Cooper
Planning, Infrastructure, And Economic Development Policy Advisory Committee
And
Councillor Claudine Russell
Communities, Leisure and Arts Policy Advisory Committee |
John Littlemore
Lorraine Neale
|
2023-25 |
KCC have organised a Climate Change Network subgroup for Taxi Licensing Policy to support councils across Kent. Discussion on shared policy statement ongoing.
Redrafting of licensing policy to reduce number of taxis using fossil fuel by more than 90% by 2030 ongoing.
Officers seeking consultation with taxi trade on free test and drive in EV and raising discussion around the draft policy. |
Kent district councils are engaged with KCC as part of the climate change network KCC, who recently engaged the Energy Savings Trust (EST) to undertake a consultation with the taxi trade county wide.
The aim is to encourage a Kent wide approach to explore the feasibility of moving to a more carbon neutral vehicle policy.
The results of the survey are being considered and a further discussion is planned for the next technical officer meeting on 27th July. |
Number of EV taxi |
Being Investigated |
|
Action 1.8 Actively participate in Quality Bus Partnership and ensure that the borough’s infrastructure is bus friendly. |
Councillor Paul Cooper
Planning, Infrastructure, And Economic Development Policy Advisory Committee
|
Rob Jarman
Phil Coyne
Claire Weeks
Mark Egerton
Helen Garnett
Duncan Haynes |
2023-25 |
Baseline bus data is now available but shows that that rather than improving the bus fleet it is becoming older and therefore more polluting. It is possible that newer buses are being concentrated in areas where Clean Air Zones have been imposed.
The DEFRA air quality grant scheme has not favoured projects that support bus retrofitting for several years and other schemes that could help with costs for purchasing new buses require significant investment from the bus company which they do not have.
Bus companies are suffering very significant financial difficulties as a result of the pandemic, and it is highly unlikely that they will be in a position to make investments in new buses in the short to medium term. Older buses have therefore had their operational life extended.
KCC have recently announced cuts to bus service subsidy and MBC have cut the Park and Ride service completely. EH have yet to be invited to attend the quality bus partnership and officers looking into identify actions to support bus companies to switch to clean technology and EVs ongoing. |
The emerging air quality action plan scheduled for the September committee cycle has an action to work with bus companies to improve the fleet in the AQMA.
The Quality Bus Partnership does not exist anymore. The Local Focus Groups started as part of the National Bus Strategy, KCC have been in contact with the District / Borough Councils and in most instances have held virtual meetings to discuss the Focus Groups in more detail. Maidstone are yet to have set these ‘District Focus Groups’ up.
From Authority Monitoring Report 2021-22, there has been an improved ratio between car parking costs and bus fares: Since last year there has been an increase in the cost of an Arriva day ticket and parking in the Fremlin Walk carpark. In three car parks, parking for more than 5 hours is more expensive than travelling by bus. Shorter stays are cheaper than or equal to the cost of travelling by bus. The £2 bus ticket has been extended again |
Improvement in Borough Air Quality |
Yet to commence |
|
Decarbonising And Insulating Homes and Buildings |
|||||||
|
Action 2.1 Explore grants schemes for residents, landlords and housing associations, for retrofitting insulation, and low carbon heating systems. |
Councillor Lottie Parfitt-Reid
Housing, Health and Environment Policy Advisory Committee
And
Councillor Claudine Russell
Communities, Leisure and Arts Policy Advisory Committee |
John Littlemore
Philip Jennings
|
2023-2024 |
|
Support is being provided to local housing associations to encourage take up of the available government grants.
More detailed conversations are taking place with our largest housing provider to understand how we can provide mutual assistance to maximising the impact locally. |
Number of residents with EPC rating improvements of A-C from D-G |
Planning and Development |
|
Action 2.2 Enforce Energy Efficiency (Private Rented Property) (England and Wales) Regulations 2015. |
Councillor Lottie Parfitt-Reid
Housing, Health and Environment Policy Advisory Committee |
John Littlemore
Philip Jennings
|
2023-2024 |
There are around 75,000 homes in the borough and the government data shows that there have been around 65,000 EPC’s produced, but the likelihood that these EPC’s will include repeat EPC’s for a relatively small portion of the overall stock that is repeatedly sold and relet, as well as all the new homes (circa 10,000) that have been built since 2008.
The data shows that of the 65,000 EPC’s produced 48% are A-C and 52% are D-G. However, as stated previously, these percentages are not necessarily reflective of the boroughs whole stock, just those properties that have had an EPC. Also, the government data does not provide enough detail to show how many existing homes have been upgraded to C or above.
The Council itself does not offer grants to homeowners to help them improve the thermal performance of their homes but from time to time, the government has delivered incentive schemes which we do signpost householders to, for example with our recent go green information centre.
The most positive opportunity for improving the thermal efficiency of housing in the borough, for those in most need, is the Social Housing Decarbonisation Fund, and Golding Homes, the borough’s largest social landlord, is making a bid for this in the coming months, that the council are supporting and endorsing. Furthermore, in respect of solutions for older properties, which are generally more challenging, the Council is part of the South-East Consortium that is looking to deliver the Green Homes Grant (GHG) Local Authority Delivery (LAD2) scheme. Finally, the Council is now part of the Net Zero Hub, which will access the Sustainable Warmth Fund and provide further signposting to residents to the funding available. |
The Council has adopted a new Housing Renewal Policy 2023 to support the ambitions around making homes more efficient. The Housing Service is remodelling to enable a more effective response to housing conditions.
The Council continues to support the regional initiatives to deliver the government backed schemes such as Home Upgrade Grant Phase 2 (HUG2).
This is designed to deliver energy efficiency retrofit upgrades to off-gas homes where the household is eligible. Eligibility is usually, but not exclusively, through low income and fuel-poverty criteria.
The bid was successful and represents 48 Local Authorities with a target of 3,845 off-gas properties to be upgraded by March 2025. |
As above |
Being Implemented |
|
Generating Renewable Energy |
|||||||
|
Action 3.1 Ensure Design and Sustainability DPD as part of larger Development Plan requires on-site renewables on all types of new developments and identify indicators that align with strategic planning and monitor implementation. |
Councillor Paul Cooper
Planning, Infrastructure, And Economic Development Policy Advisory Committee |
Rob Jarman
Karen Britton
Phil Coyne
Claire Weeks
Mark Egerton
Helen Garnett |
2023 onwards |
The LPR is currently undergoing examination in public.
LPR indicators are reported in the autumn.
Work has stared on Design and Sustainability Development Plan Document which will build on LPR policies in relation to sustainable movement |
The Design and Sustainability Development Plan Document (DPD) meets the National Standard and embeds the Council’s commitment to sustainability as a key component of all of our policy and strategy. The consultation stages are helping to influence and shape the DPD content which factors in the actions of the Biodiversity and Climate Change Action Plan. The Local Plan Review and the Design and Sustainability DPD, once adopted will be monitored and reported annually through the Authority Monitoring Report. That monitoring information will also inform the Biodiversity and Climate Change Action Plan.
Note: Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy states that between the end of 2014 and end of 2021 there has been an increase in the number of renewable energy installations in Maidstone Borough from 1,484 installations to 3,128. The largest contributor being photovoltaics. The installed capacity has increased from 56.3 MW to 68.4 MW at the end of 2021. |
Percentage of onsite renewable energy generation in new developments 10% adopted standard |
Being Investigated |
|
Reducing Waste and Increasing Energy Efficiency |
|||||||
|
Action 4.1 Investigate recycling strategies in the Town centre. |
Councillor Patrik Garten
Housing, Health and Environment Policy Advisory Committee |
John Edwards |
2023-24 |
New Action, No previous update |
The Kent Resource Partnership is preparing a trial in Kent for new on-street recycling bins supported through external funding to investigate the most effective model for collecting recyclable litter.
The Street Cleansing Team are also currently assessing options for the separation of recycling using the barrows. It is proposed to start trialling this in September 2023. |
NA |
Being Investigated |
|
Action 4.2 Ensure MBC offices and buildings have recycling facilities. |
Councillor Patrik Garten
Housing, Health and Environment Policy Advisory Committee |
Katie Exon |
2023-24 |
New Action, No previous update |
No Update |
NA |
Yet to Commence |
|
Adapting To Climate Change |
|||||||
|
Action 5.1 Deliver policy as part of Design and Sustainability DPD and future Development Plan evolution for long term climate change adaptation in new developments to flooding, heatwaves, and drought and ensure longer term climate impacts are being considered as part of planning and policy decisions. Identify indicators that align with strategic planning and monitor implementation. |
Councillor Paul Cooper
Planning, Infrastructure, And Economic Development Policy Advisory Committee |
Rob Jarman
Karen Britton
Mark Egerton
Helen Garnett |
2023 |
The LPR is currently undergoing examination in public.
LPR indicators are reported in the autumn.
Work has stared on Design and Sustainability Development Plan Document which will build on LPR policies in relation to sustainable movement. |
The Design and Sustainability Development Plan Document (DPD) meets the National Standard and embeds the Council’s commitment to sustainability as a key component of all of our policy and strategy. The consultation stages are helping to influence and shape the DPD content which factors in the actions of the Biodiversity and Climate Change Action Plan. The Local Plan Review and the Design and Sustainability DPD, once adopted will be monitored and reported annually through the Authority Monitoring Report. That monitoring information will also inform the Biodiversity and Climate Change Action Plan.
From the Authority monitoring report 2021-22:
- During 2021/22 118 applications permitted qualified to provide BREEAM very goods standards. In total three applications failed to do so at application stage but included conditions. Two applications included conditions to submit a final certificate to the local planning authority certifying that a BREEAM rating of at least Very Good has been achieved. The third application requires the building to be built to minimum standard of BREEAM 'very good'. By adding a condition to a commercial application to meet the BREEAM standard, the applications meet the policy objective. - Indicator SA4: New development in the floodplain There were 146 applications permitted within flood zone 2 and flood zone 3 during the monitoring year of 2021/22: - Of the 146 permitted applications, 26 applications were for residential development, 3 for retail development and 4 for employment development. The remainder permitted applications are classed as ‘other’ development.
Indicator SA5: Development permitted contrary to advice by the Environment Agency on flood risk: - During the monitoring year, no development has been permitted contrary to advice by the Environment Agency on flood risk.
been exceeded. - The Council assesses new residential developments to see if they meet Building Regulations Part L. What is not currently monitored, is to what extent developments exceed energy and emission standards.
Indicator SA28: Number of developments where ‘adaptation statements’ have been produced - Data for the indicator is unavailable as it is not currently held by the council. |
NA |
Being Investigated |
|
Action 5.2 Identify actions to mitigate climate change in existing developments. |
Councillor Lottie Parfitt-Reid
Housing, Health and Environment Policy Advisory Committee |
James Wilderspin
Gemma Bailey |
2023-24 |
AMR monitoring reported in Autumn |
One solar farm site has been identified and is under investigation.
Several shared heat network solutions are being investigated. |
NA |
Being Investigated |
|
Action 5.3 Conduct Borough Climate Impact Assessment and (i) identify natural flood management (nature-based solutions and sustainable urban drainage), (ii) build local communities’ resilience, (iii) support business continuity management, and (iv) priorities and strengthen power and water supply and other critical infrastructure ensuring more resilient communities.
|
Councillor John Perry
Corporate Services Policy Advisory Committee
And
Councillor Claudine Russell
Communities, Leisure and Arts Policy Advisory Committee |
James Wilderspin
Gemma Bailey |
2023-25 |
Officers have been in touch with local parishes to share the importance of creating community flood and emergency plans. Support has been offered to the parishes with templates and material shared to help kick start the process. Some parishes have effective plans which have been rehearsed multiple times because of incidents like flooding. We have now contacted the KALC chair and plan to work with the other parishes without community emergency plans to develop one for their communities, promote the plans and recruit volunteer flood wardens to support the response to incidents. |
The scope of the impacts assessment has not yet been developed. However, officers have been working with Parish councils, and local businesses, such as Turkey Mill, to encourage the developed of Climate Action Plans to build local communities’ resilience, support business continuity management.
A more detailed hotspot mapping exercise is needed to identify climate impacts in the borough and vulnerable community areas. Officers are investigating consultants to conduct the assessment. |
NA |
Being Investigated |
|
Enhancing And Increasing Biodiversity |
|||||||
|
Action 6.1 Monitor Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) to adopted 20% standard. |
Councillor Paul Cooper
Planning, Infrastructure, And Economic Development Policy Advisory Committee |
Mark Egerton
Helen Garnett |
2023-27 |
|
The Design and Sustainability Development Plan Document (DPD) meets the National Standard and embeds the Council’s commitment to sustainability as a key component of all of our policy and strategy. The consultation stages are helping to influence and shape the DPD content which factors in the actions of the Biodiversity and Climate Change Action Plan. The Local Plan Review and the Design and Sustainability DPD, once adopted will be monitored and reported annually through the Authority Monitoring Report. That monitoring information will also inform the Biodiversity and Climate Change Action Plan.
From the Authority Monitoring report 2021-22
Indicator SA29: Net loss/gain of designated wildlife habitats - Over the monitoring year there has been no net change in designated wildlife habitats.
Indicator SA30: Condition of wildlife sites: - Data for the indicator is unavailable as it is not currently held by the council. |
Percentage of planning applications meeting Biodiversity Net Gain 20% adopted standard |
Being Investigated |
|
Action 6.2 Ensure sustainable urban drainage schemes (SuDS) maximise biodiversity potential. |
Councillor Paul Cooper
Planning, Infrastructure, And Economic Development Policy Advisory Committee |
Mark Egerton
Helen Garnett |
2023-27 |
|
No Update |
Percentage of planning applications meeting Biodiversity Net Gain 20% adopted standard |
Yet to commence |
|
Action 6.3 Develop Supplementary Planning Documents for Garden community and other strategic development sites that ensure are exemplar for biodiversity and deliver semi natural open space. |
Councillor Paul Cooper
Planning, Infrastructure, And Economic Development Policy Advisory Committee |
Mark Egerton
Helen Garnett |
2023-27 |
|
No Update |
NA |
Yet to commence |
|
Action 6.4 Enhance and expand wetland coverage across the Borough to support nutrient neutrality, flood prevention, and enhance biodiversity. |
Councillor David Burton
And
Councillor Paul Cooper
Planning, Infrastructure, And Economic Development Policy Advisory Committee
And
Councillor Patrik Garten
Housing, Health and Environment Policy Advisory Committee |
Mark Green
Rob Jarman
James Wilderspin |
2023-25 |
Started – Project opportunities are in the process of being scoped to expand wetlands in the borough.
MBC supported development of a 2.2-hectare wetland on unproductive farmland that lies South of Carpenters Lane in Staplehurst. Total projected costs are £59,785 in partnership with The Environment Agency. |
Officer are investigating four non operational sites for potential wetland projects.
Parks and Open spaces have identified, expansion and desilting of several Councilowned areas to support flood prevention in the town centre: • Mallards Way (current capacity 5,500m3) – increase depth by 400mm thus allowing the pond to hold an extra 2,200m3 = a total capacity of 7,700m3 (increase volume of 40%) • Mote Park (current capacity 1,500m3) – increase depth by 1,000mm thus allowing the pond to hold an extra 1,500m3 = a total capacity of 3,000m3 (increase volume of 50%) • Mill Pond (current capacity 5,000m3) – increase depth by 1,000mm thus allowing the pond to hold an extra 2,500m3 = a total capacity of 12,500m3 (increase volume of 50%) • Whatman Park (current capacity 250m3) – increase depth by 1,000mm thus allowing the pond to hold an extra 1,000m3 = a total capacity of 1,250m3 (increase volume of 80%) Each site is currently under investigation.
From the Authority Monitoring Report 2021-22
Indicator SA37: Ecological/chemical status of water bodies - Information gathered by the Environment Agency in shows the ecological and chemical status of water bodies in and around Maidstone. In total, 73% of water bodies have been classified as moderate in terms of ecological status or potential (this figure excludes groundwater bodies). 85% of water bodies have a chemical status of good. |
Water quality
|
Being Investigated |
|
Action 6.5 Implement a Nature Recovery Strategy, linking habitat restoration and creation to improve flood protection and water quality.
|
Councillor Paul Cooper
Planning, Infrastructure, And Economic Development Policy Advisory Committee
|
Rob Jarman
James Wilderspin |
2023-27 |
|
KCC are responsible for developing a Nature Recovery Strategy and a draft is awaited |
NA |
Yet to commence |
|
Action 6.6 Work with local farms and landowners to deliver landscape scale biodiversity initiatives Nature Recovery Strategy – including reconnection of habitats, floodplain restoration, reduced chemical inputs and reintroduction of lost native species. |
Councillor Paul Cooper
Planning, Infrastructure, And Economic Development Policy Advisory Committee
And
Councillor Claudine Russell
Communities, Leisure and Arts Policy Advisory Committee |
Rob Jarman
James Wilderspin
Gemma Bailey |
2023-30 |
Meetings have been held with Rochester Bridges Trust and Leeds Castle on Biodiversity and Climate actions and plans. Further collaboration is being sought with Leeds Castle.
Other than resource sharing no landscape scale initiatives or partnerships have been formed yet for this action. Officers seeking collaboration through KWTs cluster system to create closer ties with famers and large-scale landowners. |
No Update |
NA |
Yet to commence |
|
Action 6.7 Increase borough canopy cover expanding ancient forests and reconnecting of existing woodland including urban woods, and greening town centres. |
Councillor David Burton
Communities, Leisure and Arts Policy Advisory Committee
|
James Wilderspin
Rob Jarman
Andrew Williams
|
2023-2030 |
Following a call for tree planting sites on the MBC website campaigns page and comms outreach a total of 15 medium to large scale landowners submitted proposals to MBC of which only 6 tree planting projects we deemed viable and shortlisted. With a combined 12 hectares for planting owned by private landowners. However, Due to legal agreement requiring MBC ownership of trees, maintenance required, access needed and stipulation that the trees must adhere to DEFRA guidelines and be left to grow for a minimum of 30 years several private landowners dropped out of the MBC scheme. The number of interested private landowners has now reduced to just two (totalling 3 hectares). Cost effectiveness of the MBC planting scheme will be considered on small scale projects and MBC is awaiting confirmation from the landowners on whether the terms are accepted to go ahead with planting in autumn 2022.
One tree planting project funded by MBC is set to go ahead in October 2022 collaboration with Medway country Valley partnership and working with Maidstone Victory Angling Society (MVAS) to create a new community woodland on MVAS land adjacent to the River Medway between Yalding and Nettlestead. The proposed creation of this small community woodland on land at Grid Ref: TQ6864350752 is currently a mixture of neutral and improved grassland covering approx. 1.5 hectares. It has some wildflowers but is currently heavily affected by the presence of non-native invasive Himalayan balsam and largely inaccessibly. The site has no protected habitat designations. In the short term 1200 whips will be planted. We propose a site specific broadleaved mixed woodland with tree species such as oak, lime and alder (on the wetter parts of the site) plus ash and elm if ash die back and Dutch elm disease strains have been identified ahead of planting. Whilst the planting and activities we propose will be slightly further than 8m from the waterbody, the land in question is in Flood Zone 3. As such, MVCP have prepared a Flood Risk Assessment and Method Statement and will submit a Be-Spoke Permit Application to the Environment Agency and gain confirmation that the planting is supported by the E.A ahead of project start. No trees will be planted closer than 4m from the adjacent path. Trees will not be planted adjacent to the access gate which allows access to the site from across the railway line. A route for potential future machinery through the gate and across the site will be left to ensure the facilitation of future access. To ensure the success of the planting, MVCP will carry out Himalayan balsam removal activities with volunteers in the first year after planting. Whilst doing so we will provide training to MVAS members and volunteers to ensure this activity continues.
Additionally, Biodiversity and Climate officers are developing a business case for the purchase of land specifically for green projects including nutrient neutrality, SuDS and wetland creation, Biodiversity banks, offsetting schemes and tree planting. |
Queens Green Canopy Project completed 500 saplings planted and 7 larger oak trees. Additionally, 90 parkland trees planted across public parks and open spaces
Gatland Recreation Ground – Cllrs and residents to planted 300 saplings – with a further 500 planned.
KCC Trees outside Woodlands project extend to 2025 for the maintenance /care of woodland creation plots in MBC sites of Parkwood, Alllington Open Space and Hudson Quarry. This additional care improves the establishment and survival of 700m2 of new woodland.
At the end of 2022, the Council funded the creation of a brand new woodland in Sutton Valence. Maidstone Borough Council partnered with Sutton Valence Parish Council and Medway Valley Countryside Partnership (MVCP) to plant a total of 1,600 trees in Platinum Meadow. Volunteers from the local community battled freezing temperatures and snowy conditions to help MVCP complete this fantastic project which will benefit both nature and the local community. The sapling protection and bamboo canes used for this planting were all biodegradable.
The site in Yalding mentioned in the last update, is now in planning and development stages for a total of 2000 trees to be planting in autumn 2023.
A total of 5800 trees planted to date since 2020.
Officers are investigating larger scale sites and non-operational land for further tree planting and rewilding projects. |
Number of Trees planted / area of land rewilded |
Being Implemented |
|
Action 6.8 Review Maidstone Borough Council non-operational land to assess potential for enhancing biodiversity including allowing community groups to take responsibility for management.
|
Councillor John Perry
Corporate Services Policy Advisory Committee |
James Wilderspin
|
2023 |
Meeting held with Kent Wildlife Trust to discuss services to measure existing biodiversity and carbon sequestration, make recommendations on how to improve, and then measure new levels of biodiversity and carbon sequestration. Now seeking consultants that provide this service so that Procurement rules can be met. There was a suggestion that this becomes part of the wider piece of work around mapping biodiversity across the borough, with an eye to informing biodiversity net gain (for planning), nutrient neutrality (for planning) and actions around siting of wetlands, tree planting, etc. |
A total of 5 sites have been identified. One of which has pending planning approval. Once agree these sites will be assessed for biodiversity and rewilding project potential. If viable the sites will be added to the DEFRA register as Biodiversity Net Gain sites. |
NA |
Planning and Development |
|
Making Our Estate Carbon Neutral |
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Action 7.1 Deliver Maidstone Borough Council 2030 Net Zero Commitment, by: (i) Decarbonising the councils’ buildings through low carbon heating, LEDs, insulation and smart controls, (ii) decarbonising the council’s fleet to fully EV, (iii) investing in renewable energy generation, (iv) incorporating energy saving principles into office strategies, and (v) supporting staff to shift to electric/ultra-low emission vehicles, public transportation and more flexible working. |
Councillor John Perry
Corporate Services Policy Advisory Committee
And
Councillor Claudine Russell
Communities, Leisure and Arts Policy Advisory Committee |
Mark Green
Katie Exon
Darren Guess
James Wilderspin |
2023-28 |
· Tangible recommendations for upgrading Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) to zero carbon/electric equivalents such as ground and air source heat pumps, and solar thermal energy; • Tangible recommendations for upgrading building fabric and electrical equipment, such as wall and roof insulation, glazing, LEDs, smart controls for greater energy efficiency; • Seeking opportunities and tangible recommendations for onsite EV transportation and renewable energy generation, from photovoltaic panels or others where feasible. • Give appropriate level of detail required to aligned recommended upgrades and retrofits with funding opportunities/rounds (eg. KWH savings, cost savings ect); and • Support MBC through prioritisation, detailed design stage and procurement of works. The Study results will be used to apply for funding from the second phase of Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme in September 2022.
MBC has developed a Green Fleet Strategy. The primary objective of this Strategy is to enable the purchasing of vehicles that deliver the business needs and consider their whole life costs whilst minimizing their environmental impact. It is important that when purchasing new vehicles, attention is given to whether the vehicle is necessary and if so, whether there is a commercially viable electric or hybrid alternative. This Strategy sets out the decision-making process for selecting new or replacement fleet vehicles and how the Council will seek to deliver its commitment to reducing emissions, miles, and fuel usage.
Fleet Telematics software has been in use across all the Depot, and parks vehicles in 2022. Highly accurate driving data, and milage data will be utilised to improve driving habits of MBC staff, stop idling, find the most direct routes in case of an incident and for regular scheduling, as well as accurately record vehicle emissions and fuel usage.
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Works at depot have completed to upgrade the electricity capacity by 277kVA and the installation of x 10 Fast Point EV chargers to ensure the Depot has sufficient capacity to charge approximately 20 EVs on site. This work has ensured the Depot has capacity for the medium term to upgrade vehicles to EV equivalents.
The Depot received delivery of 3 new Ford EVs in early 2023, bringing the total number of EVs to 9 in operation at the depot (13% of fleet is electric).
Secondary glazing has been installed in the Museum in two separate sections to improve energy efficiency/insulation.
In April 2023, officers submitted a bid for Phase 4 Public Sector Low Carbon Skills Fund. A total of £178,384.54 funding support was applied for to support design development, architectural design and implementation of low-carbon technologies, to substantially cut Maidstone House and the Link Buildings carbon and utility costs. Officers will hear if the grant is accepted in July 2023. |
Percentage Change of Carbon Emissions from MBC Buildings, Fleet, Contracts (ie Scope 1, 2) |
Being Implemented |
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Action 7.2 Measure the Council’s carbon footprint each year and report findings to relevant committees and the public. |
Councillor David Burton
And
Councillor John Perry
Corporate Services Policy Advisory Committee |
James Wilderspin
Katie Exon |
Annually |
Clean data is now available from MBC’s fleet telematics software and automated utility data provided by LASER. Both data sources are provided on a monthly basis and a Carbon Dashboard system is under development, that will accurately show and update monthly, MBC’s Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions. Once established, additional footprint data will be added, including staff millage, pool car usage, and taxi and bus carbon for the borough. The dashboard interface will be made user friendly and can be made publicly accessible via the MBC website.
Instantiation of Automatic utility meters in all MBC buildings is ongoing. |
Officers have developed and launched the council’s carbon footprint dashboard. The dashboard combines all the Council’s building utility data and fleet milage and calculates its carbon footprint for scope 1 and 2 emissions. Reporting on scope 3 emissions is still under investigation.
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Carbon Footprint Dashboard
Percentage Change of Carbon Emissions from MBC Buildings, Fleet, Contracts (ie Scope 1, 2 and 3) |
Complete and being monitored |
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Action 7.3 Purchase 100% renewable energy for our buildings and operations where we control the supply (market dependant with maximum 10% offset) and investigate Public Energy Partnership Power Purchase Agreement (PEPPPA). |
Councillor John Perry
Corporate Services Policy Advisory Committee |
Mark green
James Wilderspin
Katie Exon |
2023-24 |
This Action has been delayed significantly due to price changes and demand on renewable energy generation due in part to the invasion of Ukraine and Europe wide energy concerns. Both Npower and Total have been contacted to upgrade MBC buildings meters to automated meters, however instillation of new meters has been severely delayed due to high demand for meter change overs across the UK. Officers currently seeking options with Laser on energy tariffs over short term, and longer-term Green Basket and PEPPA options. |
The easiest green tariff procurement occurs via REGO backed Green Tarif Options. The process requires signing of an Access Agreement Variation, which would list all the dedicated meters and volumes the Council would like to assign the Green Tariff to.
However it is advised that REGO prices have been rising since UK began to export them to the EU market in 2018 with some reductions post-Brexit and after the demand destruction caused by Covid related lockdowns in 2020. Since April’21 the increasing demand for net zero, non-domestic energy users taking more steps to improve their green credentials and GHG reporting grew the REGO demand much further (many users expecting 100% renewable energy tariffs as standard).
REGO prices were increased by 50% in comparison to 2020, and delivered rate of about £1.45/MWh for the 21-22 pricing period, then delivered rates to £6.16/MWh for 22-23 pricing period when procuring in June/July and recently up to ~£11/MWh for the April’23 onto Mar’24 period.
If this trend continues the Council could see REGO rates for the Oct’23-Sep’24 delivery period rise to as much as £13/14 per MWh (one REGO assigned per one MWh of renewable energy). Costing between £22,000 and £55,000 per annum to have a green tariff across all Council properties.
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NA |
Planning and Development |
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Action 7.4 Identify temporary accommodation assets eligible for insulation and low carbon heating upgrades under funding schemes and arrange installation. Provide top up funding for any measures not fully funded to ensure all homes let by MBC as temporary accommodation are energy efficient and EPC rating improved to requirement.
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Councillor Lottie Parfitt-Reid
Housing, Health and Environment Policy Advisory Committee |
William Cornall
John Littlemore |
2023-24
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No Update |
Early enquiries have revealed that the current programmes are not open to temporary accommodation. This appears to be an oversight and officers are lobbying government officials to bring about an amendment to the grant conditions. |
NA |
Planning and Development |
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Action 7.5 Improve data management on all property including leased buildings and prioritise decarbonisation actions and improve EPC ratings. |
Councillor John Perry
Corporate Services Policy Advisory Committee
And
Councillor Claudine Russell
Communities, Leisure and Arts Policy Advisory Committee |
Katie Exon
James Wilderspin |
2023-24 |
MBC has a continual program in place to replace lighting with LED low energy alternatives, and support tenants to achieve their own carbon reduction goals by ensuring buildings can support solar panels and more efficient heating systems.
The Decarbonisation Study led by APSE Energy has been extended to now include Maidstone Leisure Centre, Cob Tree Golf Club, and Lockmeadow Shopping Centre. Findings and recommendations from the study will support renewable energy generation and energy efficiency measures that can be implemented by lease holders to reduce their energy consumption and bills. |
Data Management forCouncil key buildings has been improved as part of the data clean up required to capture an accurate carbon footprint of the councils’ buildings. However, officers are still working to improve leased data management, particularly for the temporary housing stock. |
Percentage change/ reduction in Utility costs/KWh for Gas, Electricity, Water usage at leased assets. |
Being Implemented |
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Action 7.6 Deliver 100% LED lighting in MBC carparks. |
Councillor Paul Cooper
Planning, Infrastructure, And Economic Development Policy Advisory Committee |
Jeff Kitson
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2023-24 |
Of the 331 lights installed in off-street car parks, 301 have been converted to LED equating to 90.9% of all units. The remining lamps will continue to be replaced as part of the existing maintenance operation to ensure that all car park lighting has been converted to LED in the next 5 years’. |
Parking Services continue to be on target to achieve 100% LED lighting in Council car parks by the end of 2025. |
NA |
Being Implemented |
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Communications And Engagement Strategy |
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Action 8.1 Support residents (including adults, women, youths and children, faith groups, minority groups, and marginalised groups), partners, and wider stakeholders (Parish councils, farmers, and landowners) to understand the changes they can make to reduce and prepare for climate change. Including:
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Councillor Claudine Russell
Communities, Leisure and Arts Policy Advisory Committee |
Gemma Bailey
Julie Maddocks |
2023-25 |
Manned by volunteers, the information centre answers questions, point people in the right direction, hand out leaflets and information on suitable practices to reduce energy bills, encourage active travel, and using greener products. Local sustainable businesses were invited to showcase and demonstrate their goods and services for free to reach local people and create clarity and confidence in making greener choices. The centre also hosted numerous events, talks and coincide with other climate and biodiversity campaigns subject to funding and staff/expert availability.
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Officers have developed a new council biodiversity and climate website to focused entirely on the work we are doing around climate change and biodiversity. The website includes information to help people understand climate change, ideas on how to reduce their impact on the environment, how to get involved in a local community group to help tackle the biodiversity emergency and climate crisis, as well as our progress and next steps to meet our Net Zero target. Another feature of the new website is a carbon calculating dashboard, enabling us to collect accurate emission data, improve data management, increase transparency and automate data from multiple sources.
In spring 2023, over 82,000 residential properties in Maidstone received a special environmental edition of the Maidstone Borough Council 'Borough Insight' magazine. Included in this issue: Litter Heroes, local environmental stories, a focus on The Queen's Green Canopy, energy saving tips and help, Council sustainability projects and an eight page pull-out section dedicated to waste and recycling.
Funding initiative, 'Love Where You Live', aimed at supporting small-scale environmental projects that encouraged a sense of civic pride across communities; meeting a desire not only to live in clean and attractive places, but also to actively contribute to transforming, enhancing and maintaining those spaces for both the community and local biodiversity. Organisations could apply for grants of between £500 and £5000. In total, £35,000 of funding was awarded to 23 groups in Maidstone.
In January 2023, the Council took part in The Queen's Green Canopy planting initiative, planting 500 trees in seven locations across our parks and open spaces. We worked with five local community groups and schools to help plant the new trees.
Solar Together scheme phase 2 ran over 2022-23 financial year and has delivered 1,576 installations across Kent (109 in Maidstone) which equates to an estimated 39,000 tonnes of carbon reduction over 25 years.
Between 2011 and 2020, CO2 emissions per capita in Maidstone has Declined from 6.3CO2te to 3.8 CO2te, a trend which is reflected in the Kent average. |
NA |
Being Implemented |
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Action 8.2 Provide staff awareness information of biodiversity and climate change at induction and provide job specific sustainability training to each service area.
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Councillor David Burton
Communities, Leisure and Arts Policy Advisory Committee |
Gemma Bailey
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2023 |
A staff training module on Climate Change and Biodiversity has been made mandatory on the ELMS system for all staff and new joiners at MBC. The Climate and Ecological Emergency module includes what climate change is, the evidence there is for it, how you can help to combat it and MBCs Biodiversity and Climate Change Strategy.
MBC’s newly appointed Biodiversity and Climate Engagement Officer has also received training from the Carbon Literacy Project enabling her to accredit members of the staff and council members as carbon literate following basic training. the Biodiversity and Climate Engagement Officer is currently developing a training manual tailored to different department needs across the council to be rolled out commencing November 2022. |
The staff training module on Climate Change and Biodiversity has been completed by all staff.
Officers have developed and are implementing a Carbon Literacy Training course for staff C. 45 staff have been trained and accredited to date. |
Number of Staff carbon literate accredited |
Being Implemented |
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Action 8.3 Enable local businesses to reduce their carbon footprint by providing information on funding opportunities, carbon calculators, localised supply chains and travel plans that promote active travel and public transport, and support businesses to use the Kent Prepare website to raise awareness of how to prepare for flooding.
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Councillor David Burton
And
Councillor Claudine Russell
Communities, Leisure and Arts Policy Advisory Committee |
Julie Maddocks
Chris Inwood
Gemma Bailey
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2023-25 |
MBC is continuing to promote green grant funding in our business e-newsletter and via Maidstone Business Boost. MBC also hosted a LOCASE workshop at MIC in mid July 2022. |
LOCASE is now closed, the team continue to promote green grant funding and feature a ‘green tip’ in every business newsletter. Including South-East New Energy which can provide FREE energy audits and surveys and Solar Together Kent a solar panel and battery storage group-purchase scheme.
The team hosted an Electric Bike Day in partnership with Maidstone-based business Electric Bike UK in June at Maidstone Innovation Centre.
Promotion of green grant funding and a ‘green tip’ features in every business newsletter. |
NA |
Being Implemented |
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Sustainable Decision-Making Processes and Governance |
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Action 9.1 Provide briefings and training for councillors and our managers on carbon, climate change, and biodiversity to create a culture change and ensure climate change and biodiversity are integrated into decision making.
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Councillor David Burton
Communities, Leisure and Arts Policy Advisory Committee |
Gemma Bailey
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2023 |
MBC’s newly appointed Biodiversity and Climate Engagement Officer has also received training from the Carbon Literacy Project enabling her to accredit council members as carbon literate following basic training. the Biodiversity and Climate Engagement Officer is currently developing a training manual tailored to executive members and committees to be rolled out commencing November 2022. |
Officers are planning a Cllr Carbon Literacy workshop for summer 2023. An APSE trainer who specialises in Carbon Literacy for elected members will conduct a one day event in person. |
Number of Councillor carbon literate accredited |
Planning and Development |
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Action 9.2 Ensure service plans consider biodiversity and climate change and monitor with performance indicators, so that managers plan their services to ensure opportunities for enhancing biodiversity and mitigating and adapting to climate change are taken.
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Councillor John Perry
Corporate Services Policy Advisory Committee
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Carly Benville
Anna Collier
James Wilderspin
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2023 |
Overarching indicators for the Biodiversity and Climate Change Action Plan are being automated to be regularly updated via a Carbon Dashboard system. The Dashboard system is under development and will be utilises by the end of 2022. |
Beta testing of the comprehensive Dashboard is now live and published on our website. As data for 22/23 rolls in, the dashboard is being manually updated and refreshed frequently.
KPIs have also been established and issued to different service areas for annual reporting. This are being monitored on an annual basis and feed into the Biodiversity and Climate Action Plan Updates and correspond to PACs oversight. |
NA |
Completed and Being Monitored |
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Action 9.3 Deliver Policy that ensures sustainability criteria is used for all Maidstone Borough Council construction of new buildings (offices, housing, leisure facilities) and sustainability criteria is part of decision-making process for all Maidstone Borough Council building acquisitions, to ensure buildings owned by the council are sustainable, future proofed, and align with our net zero commitment.
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Councillor John Perry
Corporate Services Policy Advisory Committee
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Mark Green
Paul Holland
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2023-24 |
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As part of the review of TBL (Triple Bottomline accounting) review we plan to ensure that the principles of VfM, Social Value and Environment are considered during key decision making in the business planning process.
These principles will also be used to develop business case guidance to ensure it considered as part of the specific decision. The TBL plan is in draft and will be finalised in the next month with an implementation plan. |
NA |
Planning and Development |
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Action 9.4 Establish criteria for investment in climate change and biodiversity and invest to save schemes (eg. renewables, heat networks). These will consider relative impact in terms of carbon reduction and ease of delivery, such that expenditure is focused on deliverable, affordable initiatives that maximise impact on the carbon reduction targets.
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Councillor David Burton
And
Councillor John Perry
Corporate Services Policy Advisory Committee |
James Wilderspin |
2023-24 |
As part of Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) requirements coming into law in 2023, officers investigating a business case to invest in land to be used for green projects including, carbon offsets, reptile sanctuaries, tree nurseries, SuDS schemes, open space creation, and BNG units sold to developers |
As per 9.3.
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NA |
Planning and Development |
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Action 9.5 Deliver corporate policy and sustainable procurement approach to reduce (Scope 3) MBC carbon footprint from contracts and services and ensure a ‘carbon cost’ is part of procurement and decision making. |
Councillor John Perry
Corporate Services Policy Advisory Committee
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Dan Hutchins
Adrian Lovegrove
James Wilderspin |
2023-24 |
In collaboration with Tunbridge Wells and Maidstone Borough Councils through our shared procurement team a Sustainable Procurement Policy has been defined that will • guide the Council in considering whole life sustainability impacts in all contracts, ensuring that we take a proportional approach and to support suppliers in assisting us to reduce our joint carbon footprint. • This policy will support the Council in encouraging suppliers to assist us in reducing our consumption on utilities. • This policy aims benefit our communities in encouraging small and medium size enterprises (SME’s) to work with the Council and to engage with sustainability issues. The policy will also aim to provide information on guidance on how they can calculate and reduce their carbon footprint. • Assess where the emission hotspots are in their supply chain • Identify resource and energy risks in their supply chain • Identify which suppliers are leaders and which are laggards in terms of their sustainability performance • Identify energy efficiency and cost reduction opportunities in their supply chain • Engage suppliers and assist them to implement sustainability initiatives • Improve the energy efficiency of their products • Positively engage with employees to reduce emissions from business travel and employee commuting. Due to the varying industries the Council procure works and services from, this policy proposes a flexible timeline to ensure compliance, fair competition and measurable results. This flexibility will also allow us to remain committed to supporting local SME’s as we progress this journey.
Additionally, procurement software is being investigated that will support accurate scope 3 emission foot printing for MBC. |
The Sustainable Procurement Policy has been agreed and adopted by members and Procurement are already requesting sustainability information as part of all new tenders.
Also, part of the TBL plan being developed. The aim is to ensure procurement embed and ensure procurement process consider both environmental and social value in their appraisal process. |
Carbon footprint dashboard |
Being Implemented |
