Residents came out in force for Radstock Town Council’s monthly meeting on Monday evening this week in anticipation of local Councillors declaring a Climate Emergency.

There were cheers and applause as Councillors unanimously agreed to declare a Climate Emergency and set up a Steering Committee to audit what is already being done in the town to address related issues. Residents speaking at the meeting offered to support the Council, alongside other local bodies who could help advise on schemes, including Bath and West Community En- ergy, who had a representa- tive present at the meeting.

Mayor of Radstock, Rupert Bevan, claimed environmental progress is already being made with regard to local transport. He said the Radstock-Frome rail link work is progressing, with a meeting due to take place with Network Rail this week. He added plans would make “a huge difference to commuters,” and that work could also be done to set up a car sharing scheme.

Cllr Chris Dando proposed the Town Council declare a Climate Emergency and set up a steering group, which was seconded by Cllr Nick Toogood. Chris Dando said: “Declaring this is shorthand for recognising there is a problem, that it is urgent, and that we need to get on with something.

“We need to set up, as a matter of urgency, a working party which we could invite interested people from the community, experts and traders and help us put together a plan, taking in to account what B&NES Council are already putting in place.”

Members of the public spoke at length about the Town Council’s responsibility to lead local people in making changes in the way in which we live. One resident said: “We have just seen two storms in one week; the roof is currently off of Writhlington School. For anyone who thinks this problem exists elsewhere – seeing pictures of koalas, bush fires and record temperatures in Antarctica even; it’s not. It’s here. It is happening everywhere.

“When it comes to Radstock, there are some good things. The starting point is quite low. On the Council buildings there are no solar panels. There is no car sharing scheme. All of the spaces, and I can understand the reasons why, are free – so there’s no difference in electric or hybrid vehicles, for example.

“The things you can put in place will make a difference and you will see results. Radstock is also fortunate in that it has a rich mining heritage in

providing energy for society.

“You need to show leadership in helping to facilitate a different sort of energy. Radstock is well blessed in terms of renewables. We have windy hillsides and south facing slopes. We could even use geothermal energy from mining resources and tangibly make a difference. There are plenty of people in this community that have the knowledge to help, if you need it.”

Another resident added: “I have lived in Radstock for over fifteen years. We are all in this situation together – this is a global emergency, there is no ‘Planet B’. If we allow ourselves to connect with the situation, it is huge, but ignoring it won’t make it go away. I feel a moral imperative to do what I can beyond my immediate personal life.

“Councils all around this region are taking this step – morally, I believe it is the right thing to do and making the changes, step by step.

“Radstock Town Council, I urge you to be courageous and take this step. Local residents will work with you.”

Radstock Town Council next meets on Monday, 16th March, 7 p.m. at Radstock Methodist Church Hall.