NEWS RELEASES
Making sure the future is in good hands
22nd December 2006
WE hear the word "sustainability" used often these days and it is a subject vitally relevant to everyone who believes in caring for the future.
Put in its simplest form, it refers to methods by which we can all continue to provide for our current needs without damaging the environment to the detriment of future generations. That means taking care of our land, our heritage, buildings, water and energy supplies and air quality in such a way that will preserve them for the future. It is also broader than this, for example it covers the potential social benefits of good transport provision.
All of this is not something that can be achieved by councils alone. The population at large must be working in the same direction and, following publication of the recent Local Government White Paper "Strong and Prosperous Communities", the way forward is by councils continuing their work in this area and by the preparation of a Sustainable Community Strategy in which residents and other partners will play a key role.
Much has already been achieved locally but a lot more needs to be done. Sustainability is a theme than runs through much of the work that we do. For example our community transport programme is providing a string of initiatives such as mini-buses, dial-a-ride, taxi voucher schemes, car sharing, walking and cycling to school. In rural areas where public transport is sparse there are real issues with regards to mobility however we need to continue to encourage people to use the buses, to walk more and to use cars more sensibly.
In the area of construction, we took a lead during the building of Horsham's Pavilions in the Park by using timber from properly managed forests accredited by the Forest Stewardship Council. We will also be incorporating energy and water efficiency features in the new Billingshurst Pool.
On the home front, Council advice is available about saving energy through cavity wall and loft insulation. For older people keeping warm in the winter can be a matter of life or death; heating such homes efficiently is vital. Businesses are also encouraged to play their part through the West Sussex Sustainable Partnership.
Household recycling in our District is close to 40%, well above the national average, paper from managed forests is being used in our offices, and much is being done in the area of water conservation. Working with developers, we also aim to ensure any large scale housing development will incorporate water efficiency measures.
For more information about sustainability, please contact Helen Peacock on 01403 215513, email: Helen.peacock@horsham.gov.uk
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THIS is the final Chairman's letter to the West Sussex County Times, we are informed. Thank you for reading it and for your comments over the years.
Thank you also to the County Times for including it. Do see our website for our latest news, email us at contact@horsham.gov.uk or call 01403 215549.
A Happy Christmas and New Year to you all.
Ends
Councillor Bernard Baldwin, The Chairman, Horsham District Council, Park North, North Street, Horsham, RH12 1RL.Email: contactchairman@horsham.gov.uk