Town council aims to protect Newtown's biodiversity

As world leaders meet in Glasgow for COP26 to discuss climate change, town councillors in Newtown are doing their bit by aiming to protect the town's natural environment, biodiversity and wildlife.

At the council's full meeting this week, councillors agreed to a motion supporting the Climate and Ecological Bill. It has the support of 100 MPs and councils in the UK after being initially presented to Parliament in September last year.

Councillor David Selby brought forward a motion to the council surrounding the Bill, the motion was seconded by the Mayor, Councillor Richard Williams.

It means the town council will now work to minimise its impact on the environment while supporting the protection of the local biodiversity through its day-to-day work. This includes work undertaken by its maintenance and grounds team.

"The Bill asks the UK to take responsibility for its fair share of greenhouse gas emissions, to actively restore biodiverse habitats in the UK and to stop damage to the environment through the production, transportation, and disposal of the goods we consume," said a town council statement.

Cllr David Selby set out to encourage Newtown and Llanllwchaiarn Town Council to consider the importance of the recent Bill initially presented to Parliament in September 2020 and to look to formally show support to the Ecological & Emergency Bill. 

Following discussion and debate by the councillors, the council has pledged and resolved to:

1. Continue to demonstrate its commitment to protecting Newtown’s natural environment, biodiversity and wildlife
2. Ask the Services Committee to review its Ground Maintenance procedures in conjunction with the Operations Manager
3. Ask the Climate Emergency Lead Councillors to include these issues within their remit
4. Inform the local media of this decision, including sharing information on social media

The council statement added: "By bringing forward the motion for debate Cllr David Selby, seconded by Cllr Richard Williams, has re-highlighted the importance of the Council actively reviewing its procedures and making conscious efforts to demonstrate a commitment to protecting the biodiversity of Newtown and surrounding areas."