A Local Plan described as being at the “forefront of integrating net zero into local planning policy” has been found to have been soundly prepared by a government appointed inspector. Lancaster City Council adopted its Local Plan for the district in July 2020, but then took an unprecedented decision to launch an immediate review to include higher standards for planning proposals to address the effects of climate change and reduce carbon emissions. Over two years after a planning inspector held virtual hearing sessions to hear from those who had commented on the revised policies, her final report has been sent to the council.
The plan has a focus on how new developments can be made better for nature while also making sure that homes and residents are better protected from flooding, have lower water bills, lower fuel bills, and better access to sustainable travel. New developments also need to have a focus on improving the environment.
One of the policies in the plan requires new build homes to be net zero (or have a 100% reduction in carbon emissions) following a fabric first approach. This means homes will be more insulated making them warm and comfortable while using less energy.
For homes with solar generation, they may also be carbon-positive – meaning they will produce more energy than they use.
Councillor Gina Dowding, cabinet member with responsibility for climate action, said: "We have had to wait a considerable length of time for this outcome. But the news that our ambitious Local Plan has finally got the backing of the inspector is another step in the right direction for the Lancaster district’s programme of climate mitigation and adaptation.
“I would like to thank everyone who has been involved in producing the plan over many years, particularly our committed officers, and all those people who took the time to respond to the consultations.”
The Local Plan was featured on a Channel 4 programme, The Great Climate Fight, which highlighted the city council’s work to improve the energy efficiency of new homes by having policies that will require developers to build better insulated and more efficiently heated homes.
A council report early next year will recommend formal adoption of the plan. At that point, the reviewed policies will take effect when determining planning applications. Earlier this year the council also won a Local Government Chronicle award for work associated with the plan.
In its citation, the Chronicle described the city council as applying “a continued and persistent level of tenacity and determination not commonly seen in the plan making process.”
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