Update released on Dunmow environmental issues

Cllr Louise Pepper, who represents Great Dunmow North ward on Uttlesford District Council, explained where funds have been allocated to tackle climate change in the district.

The Zero Carbon Communities Grant Fund, worth £300,000, has been launched to help community groups take action.

Non-profit groups and organizations, including city and parish councils, can apply for funding for new projects focused on reducing carbon emissions, community engagement in climate change, or ecological improvement within the community.

The first round of funding is open until January, with grants ranging from £1,000 to £35,000 available.

More information is available on the council’s website, and a webinar in support of the fund will take place at 7:30 p.m. on Tuesday, November 15. To receive a login link, email [email protected]

The District Council has also provided £4,925 in funding to the Flitch Way Action Group to investigate options for cycle links between Flitch Way and the south side of Bishop’s Stortford, Stansted Airport and Start Hill.

According to the report, transport is Uttlesford’s biggest CO2 emitter. In the district, 12% of the inhabitants travel by public transport, 1% by bicycle and 9% on foot.

Cllr Pepper highlighted the health benefits of walking and cycling, but added that these will not be the preferred option during the winter months, so “adequate public transport is essential”.

She said: ‘It is imperative that we promote bus travel across the Dunmow area and ensure choices of sustainable travel options are available and remain a key priority.’

The update also explored how Uttlesford District Council is helping to tackle the energy crisis.

Advice is available on the District Council’s website regarding energy efficiency and from the Council for Volunteer Service Uttlesford.

Government-funded Sustainable Heat grants of up to £10,000 are designed to support households most affected by rising energy bills.

Funding is available for landlords, private tenants and people on social rent who live in a low energy home and have a household income of less than £30,000 a year, or who are unemployed and on benefit .