NEW planning rules to help Cornwall tackle climate change are being developed.

Cornwall Council has the ambitious aim for the county to become carbon neutral by 2030.

The Climate Change Development Plan Document, or DPD, will outline Cornwall Council’s vision to protect the environment by introducing new planning policies and strengthening existing rules.

Members of the public are being asked to have a look at the proposed new rules and say what they think.

Because of the need to stay at home in response to the Coronavirus, residents and other stakeholders can view the proposals online and give their views and suggestions by email from now until May 26.

There will be no face-to-face public events or exhibitions during the current health emergency, but there will be some online question and answer sessions via Skype, with details to be confirmed.

Climate change policies being considered will support the following areas: ?

Green energy?–This could mean allocating areas for renewable energy, safeguarding renewable energy sources, and promoting energy storage solutions to ensure renewable power generated in Cornwall can be used here.??

Enhancing the environment?– Using nature to reduce Cornwall’s carbon footprint, protecting and increasing biodiversity and planting more trees and hedges, for example through the 8,000-hectare Forest for Cornwall programme.??

More efficient housing?– Building homes with alternative, renewable energy sources, improving building standards and retrofitting Cornwall Council housing to make homes warmer and greener.?

Greener travel?– Looking at ways to reduce the need to travel by designing places that encourage walking and cycling.?

Community resilience?– Increasing resilience to coastal change and flooding, making sure buildings are in safe locations and creating natural flood management systems.?

Once the public has had their say, the policies would go forward for Government inspection before becoming a statutory planning document, like the Local Plan.

Councillor Bob Egerton, Cornwall’s cabinet member for culture, economy and planning, said: ’While we are all doing our part during this pandemic, we need to keep up the momentum on our plans and action to tackle the climate emergency.

’We hope that you will find the time to give us your views and suggestions during this consultation. Climate change is important to all of us and we need to press on with this vital work to safeguard the future for everyone.’

Looe Councillor Edwina Hannaford, who is cornwall’s cabinet member for climate change and neighbourhoods, said: “We have seen the incredible community action of our residents across Cornwall recently.

’While social distancing has meant we have had to cancel or postpone public meetings and events, you can still contribute ideas and comments on our Climate Change DPD online and through other means.

’If you can’t access the internet get in touch and we will arrange for a paper copy of our plans to be sent out to you.’

To give views on the Climate Change DPD go to

For further information visit?Cornwall Council’s website?or email?[email protected]?or call 0300 1234 151.