More cycle paths and routes, carbon neutral housing, subsidised bus travel and the establishment of an independent sustainability committee are amongst the key recommendations from a public inquiry into climate change in Kenilworth and Warwick.

The Warwick District People's Inquiry into Climate Change was launched virtually on 25 February, setting out recommendations for how to tackle climate change in the local area.

118 members of the public got the chance to hear directly from some of the inquiry's 30 panel members and discuss with them their recommendations for reducing the district's carbon footprint in areas including transport, housing, waste and recycling.

Pete Bryant, a facilitator at Shared Future who organised the inquiry said: "Having undertaken a similar process in other areas of the UK, we were particularly impressed with how well this panel of 30 randomly selected Warwick District representatives has come together, especially as we have been unable to meet face to face.

"The group has worked hard, listening, deliberating, challenging, arguing and eventually producing a set of prioritised recommendations, which will be taken forward by the Council and other organisations as part of a district wide Action Plan to address climate change."

Warwick District Council's Portfolio Holder for Environment, Councillor Alan Rhead added: "The Climate Change Inquiry is a first for this council and I would like to give my heart-felt thanks to our panel of representatives and facilitators for the energy, enthusiasm and knowledge they have brought to this process.

The Inquiry will aid us in making important decisions for all of our futures; reinforcing the work we are already doing on our 'Net zero by 2030' Action Programme and adding new areas to explore along with our partners."

The full report from the people's inquiry will be presented to the Warwick District Council Executive and Full Council in May 2021.

To find out more about the Inquiry, read the key recommendations and watch a recording of the launch on YouTube visit the Warwick District Council website.

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