‘Trailblazing’ council awarded Highly Commended at awards
Three Rivers District Council has been praised as “trailblazing” in its efforts to help residents tackle ever increasing utility bills at a recent national awards ceremony.
The council’s Climate Change Team has received this recognition in the Supportive Local Authority category at the Community Energy England Award’s ceremony this November in Cutlers Hall, Sheffield. The team were recommended by Grand Union Community Energy (GUCE) in acknowledgement of their partnership work over the past three years. Through collaborative work on projects including solar canopies, Transition Streets (now known as Sustainable Streets) and Energy Champions, more residents have been inspired by long lasting sustainability improvements.
Cllr Jon Tankard, the council’s Lead Member for Climate Change & Sustainability, said: “Together Three Rivers District Council and GUCE have secured funding, shared expertise and promoted new opportunities. The engagement with residents has helped tackle ever increasing utility bills, encouraged insulation upgrades as well as reducing waste.
“I am proud that the judges praised the council as a “trailblazing council” with a partnership that goes far beyond token support.
“We have strived to embed community energy into local planning and sustainability strategies, building a meaningful partnership that keeps community energy at the forefront. Through support from the council, GUCE have been able to target more residents, deliver workshops and inspire change.”
Find out more about the Sustainable Streets project, including how you can take part: https://www.threerivers.gov.uk/services/environment-climate-emergency/living-more-sustainably#Sustainable%20Streets%20Three%20Rivers
Find out more about GUCE: https://guce.org.uk/
PHOTO CAPTION: Jo Hewitson, the council's Climate Change and Sustainability Manager, holding the wooden award.