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Kent Environment StrategyImplementation Plan 2013-2015

Your guide to a warmer, more comfortable home

Save energy, save money

Booklet DARTFORD.indd 1 10/05/2013 09:49

Warm Homes is a funded scheme to help provide households with energy saving improvements. It has been brought to you by the Kent and Medway Green Deal Partnership (KMGDP), part of the Energy Company Obligation (ECO) launched by the Government in January 2013 to help insulate your home to make it warmer and more energy efficient. The scheme is delivered by Enterprise with funding from npower, working with your local council, county council and housing providers.

The improvements could include cavity wall insulation, loft insulation, draught proofing or solid wall insulation. Warm Homes is available if you own your home, you are living in privately rented property or in social housing accommodation. Funding will be provided by npower, meaning no cost to you as the owner or tenant, and it will not only help keep your home warmer, but could also save you money on your energy bills.

Who can benefit from the Warm Homes scheme?


People on certain income benefits

Cavity wall insulation

Loft insulation

Heating improvements

External or internal solid wall insulation

Living in a private property

Living in social

housing within a rural

community

People living in a low

income community

People living in older

properties

Warm Homes is funded, meaning no cost to you


Save energy, save money What is the process?

Doorstep visit:A representative from Enterprise will visit to tell you more about the scheme. If you are interested in taking part, they will take some details and arrange an assessment.

Assessment:We will assess if you and your property are eligible for home improvements via a detailed assessment and then contact you to discuss next steps and arrange a home survey.

Technical home survey:A qualified installer will visit your home to carry out a technical survey to prepare for the works to be carried out. They will also inform you of what you will need to do to prepare your home for the installation.

Installation:We will arrange a date to install the energy saving improvements to your home. You will also be advised how long it is likely to take and how to make the most of your home improvements.

Aftercare:The works carried out will be covered under warranty. We will also ask you to complete a satisfaction survey. The Enterprise call centre is also open for any enquiries before or after the works are carried out on 0800 521 660 (select option 2).


Delivered by

Cavity wall insulationTwo layer walls can cause condensation and make houses feel cold. The insulation fills the gap with expanding foam to keep the warmth in to save energy. This will help an average household save about £140 per year.

Loft insulationA quarter of heat from your home can escape via the roof. We use rolls of mineral wool to insulate your loft space meaning it could save an average household about £180 per year.

Draught proofingDraught proofing could help to stop cold air getting into the home, but also stop heat getting out. We install insulation strips and brushes to doors and windows and could save an average household about £65 per year.

Solid wall insulationHouses with solid walls can let out twice as much heat as cavity walls do. These walls can be insulated inside or outside the home. An insulation layer is fitted to the wall. This internal or external insulation could save an average household around £490 per year. (source: Energy Saving Trust)

For more information visit kent.gov.uk/warmhomesor call 0800 521 660 (select option 2).

What these improvements can mean for your home

Top tips to keep your house warm and energy efficient

* Switch off appliances when not in use

* Use energy saving light bulbs

* Seal windows and doors

* Fit a heat jacket to your water tank

* Shower rather than bath

Part of the Kent and Medway Green Deal Partnership


Dear Resident, Warm Homes is a funded scheme to help provide households with energy saving improvements. It has been brought to you by the Kent and Medway Green Deal Partnership (KMGDP), which Dartford Borough Council is a member of, to help insulate your home to make it warmer and more energy efficient. The scheme is delivered by Enterprise with funding from npower, working with Dartford Borough Council, Kent County Council and housing providers.

The Warm Homes scheme is funded and is provided at no cost to you.

The scheme is part of the Government’s Energy Company Obligation (ECO), which offers energy saving improvements to your home which could include:

Cavity wall insulation Loft insulation Draught proofing Solid wall insulation

A representative from Enterprise will visit your home in the next few days to explain how the scheme could benefit you. This will be an initial, no obligation assessment to see what improvements could be made to your home. The representative may need access to all areas of your home, including the loft. If your property is eligible and you decide to go ahead, we will then arrange a full technical survey and an installation date to suit you. If you are a Dartford Borough Council tenant you do not need to contact the council as they will be aware of your involvement. If you are in rented accommodation, or are a tenant of a housing association, we will help you contact your landlord to get permission before you decide to take up the offer. Further information can be found in the enclosed booklet or at www.kent.gov.uk/warmhomes and www.dartford.gov.uk/housing If you would prefer to book your visit at a time to suit you or would like to advise us that you do not want the assessor to call at your home in the next few days, please call us on: 0800 521 660 Yours sincerely, Councillor Pat Coleman - Portfolio Holder for Housing, Dartford Borough Council All Enterprise representatives carry ID badges. Please ensure that you see their identification before they enter your home. If you are unsure and require further clarification about the scheme, please call Dartford Borough Council on 01322 343434.

Sorry we missed you

We called today ( ) to speak to you about Warm Homes – brought to you by The Kent and Medway Green Deal Partnership. This is a funded scheme offering home energy improvements to prepare your home for winter.

We will be back on at or you can give us a call on 0800 521 660 to arrange a time that suits you.

Delivered by

kent.gov.uk/warmhomes


Sorry we missed you DARTFORD.indd 1 10/05/2013 09:51

Businesses working together for a low carbon future

The Kent Environment Strategy was developed in 2011 prior to significant and rapid changes both locally and nationally. Priorities and drivers have moved on with the Coalition Government and it is important that our work and plans reflect this to ensure we are delivering the best we can for the environment in which we work and live. This review of the implementation plan therefore begins with strategic context and areas of influence as well as an overview of our priorities for Kent. The plan is broken down into the themes of the Kent Environment Strategy, their relevant policies, actions and targets, and seeks to address a number of key questions:

1. What do we want to do?2. Why is it needed?3. How can we achieve it?4. How will we know we’ve succeeded?

Many of the actions and priorities in the 2011-2013 implementation plan are complete and these are referenced where they underpin future activity. Full monitoring of the previous plan can be found on our webpages.

Monitoring of the 2013-2015 plan will take place during July each year to tie in with an annual review of Climate Local Kent in September each year. As part of the monitoring process we will identify where policies or drivers have changed, or where gaps and issues have

arisen, to ensure that the plan remains up to date and relevant.

Communication and EngagementIn addition to the many activities contained within the plan, we have a cross-cutting action to ensure that our work and successes are clearly defined and communicated widely. Over the period of this implementation plan we will focus on developing innovative and wide-reaching engagement for the following projects in particular:

z Retrofitting Homes in Kent: the Kent and Medway Green Deal Partnership

z Climate Local Kent: One Year On z Minimising Food Waste z Building Community Resilience z Supporting Kent Business – Low Carbon Kent z Delivery of the Kent Renewable Energy Action Plan z Improving Health and Wellbeing Through Outdoor

Recreation

The Kent Environment Strategy is our local framework for delivery of environmental priorities in Kent and is supported by our public commitment, Climate Local Kent. The Localism Act 2011 has provided greater freedom in how we work, offering significant opportunities to drive down costs for our residents and

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Introduction

http://kent.gov.uk/environment_and_planning/environment_and_climate_change/kent_environment_strategy.aspx

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businesses, encourage innovation and improve health and wellbeing through an environmentally, socially and economically sustainable Kent. However, there remain a number of national policies and drivers such as the Climate Change Act (2008), which commits the UK to a legally binding target to reduce the UK’s greenhouse gas emissions by 34% by 2020 80% (from a 1990 baseline) and 80% by 2050, and we have our part to play in their delivery. In addition the Act requires Government to develop a national Climate Change Risk Assessment (published in 2012) to form the evidence base for a National Adaptation Plan (launched 1st July 2013), and this contains responsibilities for Local Government. The Act provides an over-arching driver for action but there are many other national policies informing our activities and these are referenced as appropriate in the relevant themes.

The Health and Social Care Act has placed new responsibilities on Kent County Council for the delivery of Public Health Services and the formal institution of the Health and Wellbeing Board as a council committee took place in March 2013. The Board have a duty to encourage integrated working between the NHS, Public Health and Social Care. This provides us with an excellent opportunity to improve and join up thinking as to how our environment can bring great benefits to the health and wellbeing of our residents, such as through access to green space, improving air quality and encouraging active travel. This iteration of the implementation plan looks to build these links more strongly to ensure that we not only take measures to maximise opportunities but in also build resilience to any potential negative health impacts of our policies and

changing climate.Kent policies and targetsThe Kent Environment Strategy is a key priority for delivery of the Vision For Kent 2012-2022. The vision is our countywide strategy for the economic, social and environmental wellbeing of Kent’s communities. There are three ambitions for the vision which are to Grow the Economy, Tackle Disadvantage and Put the Citizen in Control. The Kent Environment Strategy is a cross-cutting theme in recognition of its role in delivery of all three ambitions.

In September 2012 Kent partners, through Kent Leaders, signed up to deliver Climate Local Kent, our public commitment to:

z Set locally-owned and determined commitments and actions to reduce carbon emissions and to manage climate impacts. These will be specific, measurable and challenging;

z Publish our commitments, actions and progress, enabling local communities to hold us to account;

z Share the learning from our experiences and achievements with other organisations; and

z Regularly refresh our commitments and actions to ensure they are current and continue to reflect local priorities.

This iteration of the KES Implementation Plan therefore includes the targets of Climate Local Kent and annual reporting will commence from September 2013.

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FusionFunded through the Interreg IVA 2 Seas programme, Fusion is a project for small and medium businesses seeking to start, change and grow while taking into consideration the environmental and social impacts of their business. The project provides an opportunity for Kent and Medway businesses interested in accessing a share of the low carbon sector through influencing policies to enhance Kent’s economic potential. www.kent.gov.uk/lowcarbon

Contact: [email protected]

Low Carbon KentAn online network of businesses who are all taking action to cut costs by cutting carbon and winning business. www.lowcarbonkent.com


Steps to Environmental ManagementA step-by-step scheme helping a business develop and implement an Environmental Management System, enhancing their green credentials and reducing operational costs. www.kent.gov.uk/lowcarbon


Expansion East KentA £35million programme for businesses seeking to invest in East Kent (Canterbury, Dover, Shepway and Thanet). Financial support is available in the form of 0% interest loans. The programme aims to unlock private sector finance, stimulating over £300million in associated investment over the course of the next three years and creating a major boost for the East Kent economy. Priority sectors include: scientific research and development; manufacturing, especially in the development of the supply chain to support renewable energy industry; and tourism, heritage and culture. www.kent.gov.uk/expansion


Project Glossary

The following summarises some key projects taking place over the period of the implementation plan where these are not fully described in the actions. These by no means cover all projects covered by the Kent Environment Strategy, just those where further information is required for understanding how activities are being implemented.

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TIGER (Thames Gateway Innovation, Growth and Enterprise)A £20million programme offering financial assistance to businesses looking to invest in new products, processes or markets, or potentially looking to expand existing activities where they will lead to increased sustainable employment. Funding in the form of 0% interest loans is available to invest in North Kent (Dartford, Gravesham, Medway and Swale). Priority sectors include: manufacturing; ICT, software development and information management; low carbon technology; media, creative and cultural industries; pharmaceuticals and life sciences; and technology development.www.tiger20million.co.uk


COOPENERGYAn Intelligent Energy Europe (IEE) project to support local and regional public authorities to work together in partnership for the delivery of sustainable energy action plans. Through the development of multi level governance agreements based on best practice gathered across Europe, we can cut duplication and increase efficiency at regional and local levels. www.coopenergy.eu


Coastal Communities 2150Funded through the Interreg IVA 2 Seas programme, the project is supporting communities in the development of resilience plans for environmental change. www.kentcoastalcommunities2150.org.uk


Produced In KentProduced in Kent is a membership organisation dedicated to championing local food, drink, products and services in Kent. Our role is to promote local and seasonal produce and provide support and services for Kent businesses in the food, drink and artisan craft sectors. www.producedinkent.co.uk

GIFT-T! Project (Green Infrastructure For Tomorrow Together)GIFT-T! brings public and private partnerships together to address issues such as climate change, energy and food security, and facilitate new initiatives for green enterprises such as recreation and bio-energy. www.gift-t.eu

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Theme Lead: Andrew Pearce / Jo Addis (Environment Agency)

What’s changed since the last plan?The Coalition Government has now launched its flagship Green Deal and Energy Company Obligation (ECO) programmes, which have the potential to bring significant economic, social and environmental benefits to Kent. These programmes will dramatically alter how retrofitting is delivered nationally and the Kent and Medway Green Deal Partnership KMGDP) has already made significant inroads into delivery for Kent (Action EF 1.1) Through ECO alone, Kent could bring £60m of investment into the county. The activities of the KMGDP also support the reporting requirements of the Home Energy Conservation Act (HECA), which was refreshed in August 2012.

The National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) (published March 2012) is intended to deliver sustainable development in England addressing social, economic and environmental dimensions. With regards to environment, core policies in the framework address the transition to low carbon and include references to renewable energy, sustainable transport, access to green space, heritage and biodiversity as well as addressing the impacts and implications of a changing climate, such as droughts and flooding. The NPPF

states that there should be a presumption in favour of sustainable development and local plans should include policies as to how this will be applied locally and this is further reiterated in the Taylor review of planning practice guidance. The Kent Environment Strategy Implementation Plan looks to support the local implementation of the NPPF by identifying where guidance can be developed to inform policies and partnership working, building on the Duty to Cooperate requirement of the Framework.

From July 2011, all local authorities have been required to report annually on greenhouse gas emissions from their estate and operations and, in order to minimise reporting requirements, this forms a part of our monitoring processes for the Kent Environment Strategy and Climate Local Kent. In addition, depending on the size of organisations, the mandatory CRC Energy Efficiency Scheme forms another requirement to monitor energy use and report annually.

As stated earlier, this implementation plan will be reviewed through monitoring on an annual basis to ensure that actions remain relevant. It remains an iterative document and actions are flexible to reflect changing policy e.g., the outcomes of the Housing Standards Review and reporting recommendations for greenhouse gas emissions, due to be published in Summer 2013.

Theme 1 Living within our environmental limits

EF1.1: We will simplify the energy and water efficiency support landscape for Kent residents and support development of and access to, finance mechanisms such as the Green Deal and Energy Company Obligation (ECO)

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How? When? MeasuringSuccess Monitoring Lead

z Establish Kent and Medway Green Deal Partnership

z Develop KMGDP Action Plan to identify and deliver social, environmental and economic benefits for Kent and Medway

z Review Kent housing data to establish the potential for area based, street-by-street projects

z Procure an ECO Funding Provider and deliver ECO projects

Complete

Complete

Mar 2013and ongoing

Complete(Provider)

We will work with our ECO pilot areas to retrofit 1,200 homes by December 2014

We will bring in £12m to Kent through the Energy Company Obligation (ECO) by 2015

We will raise awareness of retrofitting in Kent, as determined through an annual perception survey for Kent residents

Businesses accredited to Green Deal standards in Kent

Home Energy Conservation Act (HECA) returnsKMGDP project monitoring for ECO pilots

Annual perception survey for Kent residents

Kent businesses on www.greendealorb.co.uk

Kent and Medway Green Deal Partnership

Brian Horton (Chair Kent Housing Group; Chair KMGDP Project Board)

Carolyn McKenzie(Accountable Officer; Kent County Council)

Kirstie Pritchard (Project Manager; Kent County Council)

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z Deliver consistent messages for Kent residents around retrofitting through Warm Homes

z Develop a network of local accredited SMEs to install measures and assess properties for Green Deal and ECO

z Procure or partner a Green Deal Funding Provider depending on the best offer for Kent residents

z Involve water companies in the KMGDP and ECO pilots (behavioural messages and small measures)

z Review potential for non-domestic properties, e.g., non-residential domicillary provision

Sept 2013

Sept 2013

Mar 2014

On-going

Dec 2013

We will support activity to reduce water consumption in Kent from 160 to 140 litres per person per day by 2016.

Associated Group(s): z Private Sector

Housing Group z Kent Energy

Efficiency Partnership

z Kent Health and Affordable Warmth Steering Group

z Sustainable Communities Officers (Strategic Commissioning, Kent County Council)

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EF 1.2: We will ensure that new public buildings are water and energy efficient and incorporate resilience to severe weather and climate change into building design where practical and viable to do so.


z Incorporate public buildings into Kent Design and identify standards for water and energy efficiency

January 2014 We will work towards a 34% reduction in emissions by 2020 (2.6% reduction per year)

Completion of Kent Design and agreed by partners

Review of standards completed for new buildings

Medway Council (leading on Kent Design)

Steve Mercer (Property Group; Kent County Council)

Deborah Kapaj (Sustainable Estates Programme Manager; Kent County Council)

Associated Group(s): z Kent Climate Change Network z Sustainable Communities Officers

(Strategic Commissioning)

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EF 1.3: We will maximise climate resilience, energy and water efficiency of existing public sector capital assets through rationalisation and retrofit.

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z Share learning and undertake a quarterly review of opportunities for maximising energy and water efficiency and building resilience in the public sector estate

z Facilitate access to finance and funding and developing new mechanisms where needed

z Public sector efficiency improvements

z Review opportunities from the Renewable Heat Incentive and Feed in Tariffs

Quarterly monitoring and ongoing

Mar 2014

Ongoing

Oct 2013

We will work towards a 34% reduction in emissions by 2020

New finance and funding developed as appropriate

Improvements to public sector estate

Review completed and recommendations in place

Kent Climate Change Network meetings

Greenhouse Gas reporting

Salix funding

RHI / FITs

Paul Crick (Director of Planning and Environment, Kent County Council)

Deborah Kapaj (Sustainable Estates Programme Manager; Kent County Council)

Associated Group(s): z Kent Climate

Change Network z Property Group

/ Facilities Managers

z Sustainable Communities Officers (Strategic Commissioning)

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EF 2.1: Help the public and business sector respond to the opportunities and challenges of the national planning policy framework (NPPF) to ensure that new developments are resource efficient, with low running costs

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z Incorporate sustainability and climate change into the review and update of Kent Design to support the NPPF sustainability policies and the outcomes of the Housing Standards Review

z Facilitate discussion between public and private sector to develop a consistent and pragmatic approach to achieving resource efficiencies

z Undertake Health Impact Assessments (HIAs) for new developments to ensure that issues such as impact of transport infrastructure on sustainability and co-benefits on lifestyles such as physical activity and mental health are addressed

Mar 2014

June 2014

Dec 2013 and ongoing

Kent Design incorporates sustainability

We will support activity to reduce water consumption in Kent from 160 to 140 litres per person per day by 2016

HIAs completed

Kent Design uptake

Smart metering

Local Plans

Nigel DeWit (Tonbridge & Malling Borough Council)

Medway Council (leading on Kent Design work)

Malti Varshney (Public Health, Kent County Council)

Associated Group(s):

z Kent Planning Officers Group and sub-groups

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EF 2.2: Ensure that 'smart mobility', including easy access to local services, public transport and broadband is at the core of all new developments, where feasible, to improve air quality, reduce congestion and improve marketability.


z Develop guidance and update Kent Design to include recommendations from the Integrated Transport Strategy and supporting delivery of Growth without Gridlock

z Ensure that smart mobility is fully integrated within the development planning process, working collaboratively with developers to maximise opportunities for walking, cycling, public transport and other sustainable travel choices

z Improve integration between Highways and Transportation and Public Health to ensure that active travel and smart mobility is integral to scheme design

z Where feasible, future proof new developments for climate resilience and new technologies (e.g., flooding, electric vehicles etc.)

Mar 2014


Dec 2013

Ongoing

Local air quality targets

Travel plans developed where applicable

Low Emission Strategy approach adopted by developers

Review of new development proposals

Kentair.org.uk

Public Health outcomes and indicators

Jambusters Travel Plan Monitoring software (H&T)

Local Plans

Paul Crick (Director of Planning and Environment, Kent County Council)

Ann Carruthers (Transport Strategy Delivery Manager, Kent County Council)

Medway Council


z Kent and Medway Air Quality Partnership

z Kent Planning Officers Group’

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EF 3.1: Maximise the use and value of materials in the waste stream and create opportunities to contribute to the green economy across the South East Seven (SE7) area

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z Working with SE7 assess the opportunities within the waste sector for local SMEs through harnessing the value of certain wastes streams:

} Ascertain economic potential of waste resources

} Assess supply and demand } Investigate reuse/recycling

networks for SMEs

June 2014 Supply chain opportunities identified and communicated to SME sector

Targeted business support programme developed and implemented where appropriate.

South East 7 Partnership project monitoring

Lyndsey Hand (SE7)

Paul Vanston (Kent Resource Partnership)

Jennie Colville (KCC Fusion Project)

Associated Group(s): z Fusion project team z Kent Resource

Partnership z SE7 z WRAP

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EF 3.2: Reduce food waste across the county

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z Roll out the Minimise Food Waste campaign in Kent

z Champion and support the growth, development and future of the food and drink sector in Kent through marketing and promotion of local and seasonal produce

z Implement the ‘Fresher for Longer’ campaign in Kent, launching in Tunbridge Wells

Dec 2013

Ongoing

Launch Mar 2013 and ongoing

Reduction in food waste

Increase in food and drink sector in Kent

Increased resident awareness of use of packaging for food products

Kent Resource Partnership project monitoring

Develop baseline and review ONS business list

Annual perception survey for Kent residents

Paul Vanston (Kent Resource Partnership)

Ed Martin (Chief Executive, Produced in Kent)


z WRAP

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EF 4.1: Use public sector purchasing power to support and drive change where a clear business case exists (link to EF 3.2; CC 7.1)


z Undertake a review of potential opportunities for KCC and Kent to install emerging energy efficiency and renewable energy technologies

z Mainstream environmental considerations into public procurement in the public sector in Kent

z Provide sustainable business advice to the public sector supply chain assisting them to make savings and identify their environmental impacts and take action to reduce it e.g. South East Business Carbon Hub (ended 2012), Low Carbon Kent Business Network (2013 - 2014) and STEM

Complete

Jan 2014

Ongoing

Reduction in carbon emissions and cost savings from public sector estate

Procurement policy and processes incorporate key sustainability issues and learning is shared widely

We will engage 500 Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) across Kent in delivery of energy, water and costs savings and support them in building resilience to a changing climate by 2014 (2011 baseline)

Carbon Reduction Commitment

GHG Emissions reporting

Sustainable Business Team project monitoring

Procurement policies review

Deborah Kapaj (Sustainable Estates; KCC)

Jennie Colville (Sustainable Business, KCC)


z Low Carbon Kent Business Network

z Kent Climate Change Network

z Kent and Medway Green Deal Partnership

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EF 4.2: Identify the key risks to food security in Kent focussing on rapid growth in water demand within the Kent horticulture and agriculture sector in the first instance.

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z Prepare a baseline on trends in water use for the sector

z Engage local businesses and key organisations to raise awareness

z Establish a task group

z Develop an action plan to

} Optimise agricultural/horticultural output per unit of water

} Establish secure and resilient water supplies

} Enhance the local aquatic environment

} Develop a stronger evidence base and establish clear targets

z Implement the action plan

Complete

Complete

Complete

May 2013

March 2014

Action plan developed and targets in place for delivery

Kent Rural Board monitoring of action plan

Alan Turner (Kent County Council)

Liz Harrison (Kent County Council / Kent Rural Board)


z Kent Rural Board

z Fusion project team

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Theme Lead: Paul Crick / Sarah Anderson (Kent County Council)

What’s changed since the last plan?Theme 2 looks to the future, focussing on opportunities for new technologies and approaches, whilst ensuring that our residents and businesses are preparing for the impacts of a changing climate. Our Climate Local Kent commitment has re-affirmed our activity within the Kent Environment Strategy, our framework for action. In 2011, the Kent Adaptation Action Plan (KAAP) was developed to align with the Kent Environment Strategy, providing Kent partners with an approach to building resilience to severe weather and climate change. In this iteration of the implementation plan however, partners have agreed to embed adaptation activities rather than refresh the KAAP in its entirety, streamlining and simplifying the plans whilst ensuring that activity is not lost. The KAAP will however remain on www.kent.gov.uk to ensure that the learning and approach for the development of the plan is widely available.

There are legally binding targets set by the EU including EU Directive 2009/28/EC which sets the UK a target of 15% of energy from renewable sources by 2020. Since the last iteration of the implementation plan, partners have developed the Renewable Energy Action Plan for Kent to support an increase in renewable energy

deployment in Kent of 10% by 2020. This target is based on a study undertaken in 2012 to assess our resources and capacity in the county for renewable energy deployment and how we can contribute to the UK target. The bid to the Local Sustainable Transport Fund referenced in the 2011-2013 plan was successful and this is reflected in renewed actions in this plan. Through Public Health’s integration into Kent County Council we will also use this opportunity to strengthen the links between sustainable transport and improved health outcomes.

The Flood and Water Management Act 2010 provides ‘for better, more comprehensive management of flood risk for people, homes and businesses, helps safeguard community groups from unaffordable rises in surface water drainage charges, and protects water supplies to the consumer’. Actions contained within Theme 2 look to address this, from better flood risk management to building water resilience into the future.

Other projects now in place since the last implementation plan include Fusion, which aims to facilitate delivery of a Low Carbon Kent through working with businesses across the county in resource efficiency and providing support for low carbon businesses. This project works to support an increase in jobs within the Low Carbon and Environmental Goods Sector (LCEGS) by 10% by 2020.

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Theme 2 Meeting the climate change challengeKe

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CC5.1: Development of a ‘Low Carbon Framework for Kent’ where the public sector leads by example by cutting emissions from its buildings, activities and services.


z Develop Climate Local Kent as part of the national Climate Local programme and ratify across Kent partners

z Establish clear, measurable targets for Climate Local Kent to support the delivery of the Kent Environment Strategy

z Widely communicate an annual review of progress aligned with Kent Environment Strategy monitoring

Complete

Complete

Sept 2013/14

Climate Local Kent commitment signed

Annual monitoring of the Kent Environment Strategy

Annual review to align to Kent Environment Strategy overall

COOP ENERGY project monitoring

Carolyn McKenzie (Head of Sustainability & Climate Change, Kent County Council)

Sarah Anderson (Climate Change Programme Manager, Kent County Council)


z Kent Environment Strategy Executive Officers Group

z Kent Champions Group


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CC5.2: Keep traffic moving and reduce the need to travel through encouraging and enabling smarter working and sustainable travel choices.


z Pro-actively support the development of high quality walking, cycling and public transport routes through the Local Sustainable Transport Fund, Local Transport Plan and Growth Without Gridlock

z Review of gas fuel infrastructure and

potential for anaerobic digestion as a fuel source. Participate in further bidding opportunities to support smart mobility and greener travel choices e.g. OLEV Electric Vehicle infrastructure grants and Better Bus Area Fund

z Establish a network of electric charging points in Kent

z Increase use of tele and video conferencing facilities

z Develop policies for staff commuting

z Ensure that the ‘Doing Things Differently’ programme of works address sustainable transport and enable smarter working

z Delivery of Cycling Strategies in Kent

z Strengthen the links between sustainable transport and the wider implications for health and wellbeing

2011-2016


Sept 2013

Ongoing

Mar 2014

Mar 2014

Mar 2014

Dec 2013

Reduce business miles by 15%

Local Air Quality Targets

Integration of sustainable transport into health and wellbeing strategies and vice versa

Successful grant applications for electric vehicle charging pointsleading to the proportion of electric and alternative fuelled vehicles in Kent being above comparable Local Authority areas elsewhere in the UK

GHG Reporting

Local Sustainable Transport Fund deliverables

Kentair.org.uk

Health and Wellbeing outcomes identified

Jambusters Travel Plan Monitoring software (H&T)

Ann Carruthers (Transport Strategy Delivery Manager, Kent County Council)


z Health and Wellbeing Board

z Kent and Medway Air Quality Partnership


z Kent Planning Officers Group

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CC5.3: Develop and deliver a Kent Renewable Energy Action Plan to address the main resources and opportunities for Kent including wind and biomass, community energy, skills and jobs and public sector deployment.

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z Review Kent’s renewable energy resource

z Develop a renewable energy action plan for Kent

z Deliver the renewable energy action plan for Kent focussing on community energy, skills and jobs, public sector deployment and technologies with the biggest potential for Kent

Complete

June 2013

Mar 2015

Resource study completed

Action plan complete by June 2013

We will increase renewable energy deployment in Kent by 10% by 2020

Feed In Tariff scheme (FITs)

Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI)

Renewables Obligation Certificates (ROCs)

GHG Reporting

Carolyn McKenzie (Head of Sustainability & Climate Change, Kent County Council)



z Kent Wind Energy Network


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CC6.1: We will ensure that resilience to climate change and severe weather is addressed across public sector strategies and policies and support the business case for adaptation actions through effective monitoring of the impacts of severe weather


z Ensure that resilience to climate change and severe weather is integrated into strategies and policies within the Health and Wellbeing sector and priority actions are carried out, commencing with building resilience for vulnerable groups

z Resilience to climate change to be considered in key strategies and planning

z We will review all services not

incorporated in the first round of the Kent Adaptation Action Plan development to ensure risks are monitored and accurately assessed

z We will review sign up to Kent’s Severe Weather Impacts Monitoring System (SWIMS) across public and private sector and integrate learning into our planning

z We will increase sign up to SWIMS across public and private sectors to support the development of a clear business case for resilience in Kent

Mar 2014

Ongoing

Mar 2014

Dec 2013

Dec 2013 / ongoing

Key policies and strategies incorporate resilience to climate change, e.g., Joint Strategic Needs Assessment (JSNA) and Health and Wellbeing Strategy

Representation from across the public and private sector and other key stakeholders on SWIMS

Review of policies and strategies

Risk registers and assessments

SWIMS users (private and public sector)

Sarah Anderson (Climate Change Programme Manager, KCC)

Malti Varshney (Consultant in Public Health, KCC) / Caroline Jessel

Alan Fitzgerald (Business Manager, Families and Social Care, KCC) / John Callaghan

Deborah Kapaj (Sustainable Estates Programme Manager, KCC)



z Kent Resilience Forum

z Health and Wellbeing Board

z KES Executive Officer Group

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CC6.2: Support communities in building resilience to climate change with a particular focus on those at greatest risk or with significant opportunities from severe weather and climate change.


z Support priority communities identified through the Coastal Communities 2150 project to develop community resilience plans

z Support community groups, including parish councils, in the development of emergency plans including the impacts of severe weather and flooding

z Support community planning through the Climate Ready programme delivery in Kent

Mar 2014

Mar 2014

Mar 2014

We will support communities in preparing for climate change through the development of 15 community resilience plans in areas most at risk or with significant opportunities.

Actions embedded within local plans as appropriate

3 community resilience plans for priority CC2150 communities

12 Parish Plans developed

Review of local plans as applicable

Christine Wissink (CC2150 Project Manager, KCC)

Peter Lovick (Emergency Planning, KCC)

Flood Resilience Team (Environment Agency)

Alan Fitzgerald / John Callaghan (Families and Social Care, KCC)


z Local Engagement Groups

z Parish Councils z Kent Climate

Change Network

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CC6.3: We will develop a Water Resilience Framework for Kent to strengthen the understanding of climate change risks to water systems, identify areas at greatest risk, support local adaptation planning and identify related business opportunities.


z Produce baseline report on the state of local water systems

z Review literature and establish the key risks to water systems in Kent

z Undertake a spatial risk assessment

z Hold workshop to disseminate findings

z Engage with businesses and communities to support resilience planning and business opportunities

Complete

Complete

June 2013

June 2013

June 2014

Report and risk assessment produced

Water resilience plans developed for priority water management units

Business opportunities identified

Fusion project team monitoring of businesses engaged

Review of actions within water resilience plans

Alan Turner (KCC)

Jennie Colville (Sustainable Business Programme Manager, KCC)


z Water Resilience Framework Reference Group

z Kent Rural Board

z Business Advisory Group


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CC6.4: We will build flood resilience in Kent, increasing awareness and developing flood responses as appropriate


z We will map and understand the interdependencies of critical infrastructure situated in East Coast flood risk areas and the impacts any flooding of this would have on inland communities

z We will develop improved coastal flood response plans as part of the East Coast flood preparedness

z Develop and implement the Local Flood Risk Strategy for Kent

z We will move homes to lower flood probability categories

Mar 2014

Dec 2014

June 2013 / ongoing

Various to Mar 2016

4814 homes will be moved out of any flood probability category to a lower probability category by 2016:

2013/14 580 properties - project has confirmed funding 2014/15 2674 properties – figure may change dependant on funding each year2015/16 1560 properties - figure may change dependant on funding each year

Surface Water Management Plans developed

Uptake of Sustainable Drainage Systems

KRF East Coast Flood Group reporting

Local Flood Risk Strategy reporting

Homes changing flood probability categories (EA data)

SuDS take up

Liz Milne (Flood Risk and Natural Environment Manager, KCC)

Flood and Coastal Risk Management Teams (Environment Agency)


z Kent Resilience Forum East Coast Flood Group

z Flood Risk Management Committee

z Alan Fitzgerald / John Callaghan

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CC6.5: Continue to support and develop the low carbon economy in Kent through Low Carbon Kent with a focus on the biggest areas of opportunity including offshore wind, biomass, retrofitting, marine technologies and eco-innovation.


z Develop and promote the low carbon sector in Kent with a focus on those areas with the most potential for growth - offshore wind, marine Green Deal/ECO/building retrofit and wood biomass through focused supply chain analysis, sector conversations, work with key low carbon sector companies to identify of gaps/barriers/opportunities and identification of business support needs

z Continue to develop and roll out across Kent an integrated business support package for the Low Carbon Sector (resource efficiency and suppliers of low carbon services/products) for Kent to maximise existing support and develop appropriate public sector interventions for Kent e.g through Fusion (Low Carbon Kent business directory and STEM), EEK, Tiger, High Growth Kent, Growth Accelerator

z Further develop the Kent supply chain programme for the public sector and key corporate companies to stimulate demand and identify potential for green innovation

z Through targeted communications continue to market Kent as the place to go for green business opportunities and continue to develop the online directory of suppliers of low carbon technologies and services to promote the low carbon sector in Kent

z Review skills needs for key green growth sector areas

z Build on the activities of training establishments and schemes to match the needs of the key growth sectors e.g., apprenticeships and targeted training programmes

Review September 2014




March 2014Review September 2014

We will work to support an increase jobs within the Low Carbon and Environmental Goods Sector (LCEGS) by 10% by 2020

We will engage with 150 local SMEs interested in being involved in Green Deal/ECO and support these to be Green Deal ready

Skills analysis and review carried out for key sectors

Annual review of jobs within the LCEGS (using a 2012 baseline set in a report by Regeneris)

Sustainable Business Programme project monitoring

Project monitoring through Expansion East Kent, TIGER, Fusion

Jennie Colville KCC

Ross Gill - KCC

Sue Dunn KCC

Carolyn McKenzie KCC

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Theme Lead: Elizabeth Milne (Kent County Council)

What’s changed since the last plan?In 2011 the Government published the Natural Environment White Paper The Natural Choice: securing the value of nature, its vision for the natural environment. The paper’s overarching theme of recognising that the natural environment underpins economic prosperity, health and wellbeing was very much in tune with the aims of theme three of the Kent Environment Strategy, in terms of optimising the economic and social benefits of high environmental quality whilst protecting and enhancing the unique natural and built-in character of Kent.

Some key themes of the Natural Environment White Paper were:

z Establishment of a new institutional framework to create a resilient ecological network, including Local Nature Partnerships, Nature Improvement Areas, National Planning Policy Framework reforms, Biodiversity Offsetting and a new Biodiversity Strategy for England (Biodiversity 2020).

z Develop a green economy and ensure the benefits we

derive from nature are properly valued, with natural capital put at the centre of economic thinking.

z Reconnect people with nature and the health and wellbeing benefits it brings, including the creation of Local Green Areas, establishment of a Green Infrastructure Partnership and development of further volunteering opportunities.

Through the KES, Kent was already addressing some of these themes and in addition Kent has seen the establishment of two Local Nature Partnerships (LNP) – Thames Gateway LNP and Kent Nature Partnership – and the Greater Thames Marshes Nature Improvement Area. The development of the Kent Nature Partnership’s action plan has been focussed around the KES framework and both LNPs are now working with the SE Local Enterprise Partnership to assist in realising the role the natural environment has to play in delivering the LEP’s growth agenda.

An assessment of Archaeological Archives and Museums was carried out in 2012 by the Society of Museum Archaeologists which highlighted the crisis in facilities for storing and accessing archaeological archives. The situation is particularly difficult in Kent with few museums now receiving archaeological archives.

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Theme 3 Valuing our natural, historic and living environmentKe

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Since the last implementation plan, the EU funded GIFT-T! Project (Green Infrastructure For Tomorrow Together) has commenced, which will develop in detail ecosystem services mapping for a region of North Kent and develop business cases to support investment in green infrastructure to deliver these services.

The establishment of a Kent Landscape Group has provided a strategic steer for the landscape actions of the KES; as a result we are seeking a more innovative and integrated approach to using landscape to influence decision making.

The Kent Downs and High Weald Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty management units will complete their statutory reviews in April 2014. The management plans provide the strategic direction, policy framework and actions for the conservation and enhancement of these nationally important landscapes, accounting of over a third of the county.

Since publication of the KES, the Countryside Access Improvement Plan (CAIP) has been reviewed in response to a number of pressures and opportunities that had emerged since it was produced in 2007: Bold steps for Kent, increasing pressure on revenue budgets, the transfer of public health responsibilities to the County Council, the Growth and Infrastructure Act 2013, a greater focus on access to the coast and reform of the Common Agricultural Policy. The revised plan, the Countryside and Coast Access Improvement Plan, was put out to consultation in May2013 with the aim of seeing the revised plan adopted later in the same year.

How? When? Measuring success Lead

z Milton Creek Investment assessment to identify, quantify and communicate the direct and indirect economic and social benefits delivered through parklands investment at Milton Creek, Sittingbourne.

Complete The assessment has shown that whilst it is possible to quantify the environmental improvements made and demonstrate the ability of the improvements to contribute to the attractiveness of place, land values, health, social gains it is not possible to, at such an early stage of the investment, to identify the true value – this needs to be assessed at a later stage. It has therefore also identified the need to put systems in place for monitoring against established benchmarks.

Greening the Gateway Kent & MedwayNatural England

z Thames Gateway Growth Area Study looking at the ecosystem service functions, and associated opportunities and threats, within the Kent Thames Gateway area.

Complete High level ecosystem services, and associated opportunities and threats, within Thames Gateway Growth Area have been identified. Development of policy to address threats and opportunities will be delivered through the EU GIFTT project and National Character Areas assessment work by Natural England.

Greening the Gateway Kent & MedwayNatural England

z Value of the natural environment communication tool - to provide a simple and precise communication tool on the value of the natural environment.

Complete This work is supplemented by a report undertaken by KCC, Valuing the Nature of Kent, which provides examples of ecosystems services and the benefits these provide to the business, health and land management sectors.

Greening the Gateway Kent & MedwayKCC

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VE 8.1 – Identify how the natural environment could better support key public services and the green economy

z Ecosystems services mapping - develop a map of the ecosystem services of the county and use this to underpin a broad range of green infrastructure activities and policy making.

July 2012 – April 2014

Once the National Character Areas assessment work by Natural England is complete (April 2014) we will have a clearer picture of the ecosystem services provided at the strategic scale which can then be used to inform planning.

Natural England

z Develop green infrastructure business plans, based on ecosystem services assessment:

} identify ecosystem service needs and functions across the Hoo Peninsula and assess where function gaps exist.

} develop an economic evaluation tool, which will provide a business cases for investment in the development of functions required to meet the identified service needs.

} identify delivery mechanisms for the required functions and put in place GI investment to meet these needs.

2012-2015 Attract new funding and delivery mechanisms for delivering green infrastructure in North Kent.

Greening the Gateway Kent & Medway

z Application of experience and knowledge gained in North Kent

Onwards To date, much of action VE 8.1 has focussed on North Kent. This experience and knowledge gained needs to be applied across the whole of Kent, in order to secure investment in the natural environment and the services it provides.

Kent & Thames Gateway LNPsGreening the Gateway Kent & Medway

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z Analysis of rural/green economy in Kent

March 2014

To identify rural enterprises (and activities) that trade on the high quality of the environment and investigate how ‘exemplar’ models can be replicated across the county.

Kent Nature PartnershipSE LEP

VE9.1 – Establish functional habitat areas and wildlife networks in Biodiversity Opportunity Areas that support local landscape character


z Develop and establish Local Nature Partnership whose membership reflects and recognises, the services and benefits which a healthy natural environment brings for people, communities and the county economy.

Complete LNP status has been granted by government to the Kent Local Nature Partnership and Thames Gateway Local Nature Partnership. Both LNPs have published vision, mission and objectives and developed programmes of action to support these.

Kent & Thames Gateway LNPs

z Review Kent’s biodiversity targets and establish new LNP targets around the BOAs framework and in support of Biodiversity 2020.

October 2013

A set of targets that will deliver biodiversity gains, that in turn delivers social & economic benefits for the county.Priority areas for conservation and enhancement identified; one further NIA identified and developed.

Kent Nature Partnership

z Connectivity and fragmentation analysis to identify pilot project areas and facilitate delivery of wider functional networks.

Complete Fragmentation index tool distributed to partners. Ongoing monitoring of its use and effectiveness to inform future improvement

KCC Natural Environment

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z Habitat connectivity project for Central & Medway Downs BOA and Medway Gap

2015 Enhanced habitat connectivity in Central & Medway Downs BOA and Medway Gap, which takes account of local landscape characterPilot ecological network project that will inform future and wider implementation of ecological networks within the county. Project to be submitted to HLF August 2013.


z Bumble Bee habitat defragmentation project

March 2014

Combine ARCH data, fragmentation index tool and species records to identify populated and unpopulated bumble bee habitats in East Kent. Barriers that impede metapopulation formation identified.Management options to overcome barriers identified.(Implementation of management options ongoing post March 2014).

Dover District Council & East Kent GI Group

VE9.2 – Update the Landscape Character Assessment (LCA), identifying areas of declining condition and taking action to improve them


z Establish Kent landscape group to provide a focus for action and get ownership for action and support for its delivery

Complete The Kent Landscape Group has met 3 times with wide representation from the Kent Local Authorities, the landowning and land management sector, statutory agencies and 3rd sector organisations.In addition, the existing Babtie LCA information was promoted to potential users to engage interest in the landscape character approach and participation in landscape group.

KDAONB

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z Pull together existing information and conduct a gap analysis for landscape character assessment in Kent.

Complete The Kent Landscape Group, Kent Downs AONB and KCC Natural Environment team has completed this action which is represented in GIS based information and reports to the group. This indicates where LCAs have been undertaken in the county and those which carried out condition assessments. It has highlighted that whilst much of the county has had some form of assessment, the approach varies which hinders direct comparison and the ability to get a consistent picture of landscape for the county.

KDAONB KCC Landscape

z Pilot update of the Landscape Character Assessment in Kent Downs AONB,

January 2014

Pilots (areas to be agreed by Landscape Group) will:- identify areas of declining condition - identify opportunities or threats to landscape character- develop an innovative approach to using landscape as an integrating framework for future decision making, drawing on landscape character but including land management and community engagement in understanding landscape.


z Use the pilots to inform an update of the Landscape Character Assessment in Kent

April 2014 Targeted action for the improvement of landscape condition.Results of pilot will be used to inform roll out of action plan across the county.


z Seek resources for review of Kent LCA

Onward Landscape assessment completed for the county, informed by the pilot.


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VE9.3 – Reduce the number of designated heritage assets judged to be at risk, working in partnership with English Heritage and others


z Set up communication network for recording damage to heritage assets, linked to Kent HER

Ongoing Heritage Crime Risk Assessments for Medway Gap and Dover district pilot areas completed.Communication network for recording damage to heritage assets created in pilot areas. Replication of communication networks across police area as appropriate.

KCC Heritage

z Pilot Heritage Warden programme in Medway Gap

Ongoing Improved monitoring of heritage crime hotspots; improved recording and detecting of heritage crime; and reduction in damage to heritage assets.

KCC Heritage

z Work with local residents to prepare conservation area appraisals to reduce number of conservation areas at risk

Ongoing Approach piloted in Dover as part of the Dover Heritage Strategy action plan.

Dover District Council

z Work with Natural England, English Heritage and landowners to increase the number of designated assets in Higher Level Stewardship

Ongoing Increased number of designated assets in Higher Level Stewardship.Assessment of success in 2013.

KCC Heritage

z Develop a solution to the Kent archaeological archives storage and access problem

2016 Temporary storage solution (March 2014)Proposal for long term archaeological archive storage developed and funded (2016).

KCC Heritage

z Implementation of Kent Farmsteads Guidance

Ongoing District Councils and Medway Council adopting guidance as part of their local plan process.Guidance in use by developers, planners and land owners.

English Heritage and KCC Heritage

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z Develop heritage strategies and historic environment policies for Kent Local Planning Authorities as indicated in the NPPF.

2015 Adoption of Dover Heritage Strategy by Dover District Council (July 2013).Development of Thanet Heritage Strategy (2015 subject to funding).Other districts and Medway Council supported in preparation of their strategies as appropriate.

Kent district councils and KCC Heritage

z Improve awareness of Kent historic defences and improve management of significant assets

December 2014

Completion of At Fort Interreg Projectstudy completed (Dece 2014).Swale Defences Survey complete by 2014.

KCC Heritage

VE10.1 – Deliver the Countryside Access Improvement Plan, with an ongoing commitment to customer led improvements to Kent’s green infrastructure


z Review of Countryside Access Improvement Plan

Complete The plan has been revised and adoption of the revised Countryside and Coast Access Improvement Plan by County Council is anticipated in the second half of 2013. The specific actions for VE10.1 have been revised accordingly.

KCC Public Rights of Way & Access Service

z Well maintained network and improved standards of access

Ongoing Standard of furniture and signage on paths improved.More accessible and useable network.Well maintained network.

KCC Public Rights Of Way & Access Service

z Reduce impact of growth and development on access to rights of way and open spaces and realise opportunities for access improvement that this growth may present

Ongoing Sustainable transport systems and high quality green space provided within new developments. Enhancement of existing rights of way network.


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z Establish a more complete, sensible rights of way network

Ongoing New routes secured in areas of high demand.New paths created to support recreational needs.Less fragmented public rights of way network.


z Improving safety on public footpaths, bridleways, byways and restricted byways

Ongoing Increase feeling of safety and security on network.Increased use of network paths.Greater availability of safe walking and cycling routes.


z Promote opportunities to visit the countryside and coast by providing high quality information

Ongoing See KES Action VE10.2 (below) KCC Public Rights Of Way & Access Service

z Education and respect for the countryside

Ongoing Landowners, tenant and land managers fulfilling their responsibilities for protecting PROW through responsible land management (supported through provision of appropriate information and guidance).Information panels and signage enabling a greater understanding and appreciation of the Kent countryside.


VE10.2 – Deliver initiatives in the Kent area that enable people to more readily access green space and the historic environment such as explore Kent, outdoor learning and volunteering


z Provision of outdoor events, festivals and other engagement initiatives

Ongoing Increased participation in, healthy outdoor recreation.Improved understanding of what can be discovered in Kent.


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z Use of ANGST to develop GI strategies

Ongoing Improvements to quality and provision of green space within local plans.


z Development of coastal access route

} Ramsgate to Folkestone pilot

} Folkestone to Rye pilot

Ongoing Improve accessibility to the coast through delivery of Kent phases 1 and 2 of English Coastal Path.

Natural EnglandKCC Public Rights Of Way & Access Service

z Maintenance of Explore Kent Ongoing Maintaining access to high quality information about walking, cycling and other outdoor activities within the county.Improved understanding of what can be discovered in Kent.


z Development of volunteering opportunities

Increased volunteering opportunities through Countryside Access Wardens; Country Parks Volunteers; Sustrans Rangers; CMP Volunteers; Thanet Coast Wardens; Medway Swale Estuary Wardens; Heritage Wardens and associated improvements in health and wellbeing.


z Gap and map analysis of health/wellbeing and natural environment projects taking place in Kent

September 2013

Results of analysis used to inform sustainability section of the Joint Strategic Needs Assessment and identify future programmes of work/ focus effort where needed.


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Co-funded by the Intelligent Energy Europe Programme of the European Union

The sole responsibility for the content of this plan lies with the authors. It does not necessarily reflect the opinion of the European Union. Neither the EACI nor the European Commission are responsible for any use that may be made of the information contained therein.

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