Issue - meetings

To receive a presentation on the Cheshire East Climate Change and Sustainable Energy Planning Research from LDA Design, the consultants on the production of the report.

The Committee received a presentation on the Council’s Climate Change and Sustainable Energy Study from Rob Shaw who represented LDA Design, the consultants on the study. Elizabeth Cooper of LDA Design was also present to assist Rob.

The presentation by the LDA Design representatives summarised the content of the Climate Change and Sustainable Energy Study. The study was designed to inform the development of energy efficiency and renewable energy policies with the Local Development Framework (LDF). The study assessed the feasibility of delivering various types of renewable energy and the total implementable resource, taking account of constraints within the Borough.

The presentation briefly outlined several of the renewable energy technologies that were investigated as part of the study. Maps were used to show potential sites in Cheshire East for various technologies and diagrams illustrating the potential energy yield across the entire borough of each technology were shown.

The purpose of the Study was to identify the borough’s potential to inform the Council’s decision making. Potential for energy production was high and exceeded the future requirements of the borough. It would be the responsibility of the Council to decide where, when and which technology would be used to fulfil the needs of the borough in the future.

Following the presentation questions were asked and several points were made including:

·         There would have to be a balance between preserving the green belt land and fulfilling the boroughs energy needs in the future. There were also aesthetic considerations to take into account, particularly in relation to the installation of wind turbines and photovoltaics.    

·         The study could be used to inform the decisions of private organisations and community groups as well as the local authority. The potential for sustainable energy production should be considered when making planning decisions and designing new buildings and residential areas.

RESOLVED:

(a)  That the Committee note the content of the Climate Change and Renewable Energy Study as presented to the Committee.

The Planning Officer and LDA Design representatives left the meeting