Environment Policy

ADOPTED September 2025

Lea Parish Council is committed to protecting the environment and the natural heritage of the Parish, whilst recognising the need for sustainable development and the provision of quality public amenities and services.

In conjunction with businesses, community groups, other agencies and the general public the Parish Council aims to help meet the needs of today’s society without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.

In carrying out its activities, where practical and economical, the Parish Council will strive to make a positive contribution to protecting and enhancing the local and global environment by:

• minimising waste and pollution
• following a hierarchy of reducing, re-using and recycling
• seeking to eliminate the unnecessary use of energy and reducing greenhouse gas emissions
• providing information electronically where appropriate
• avoiding single use plastic items.

When purchasing services and goods, where practical and economical, the Parish Council will give preference to:

• options which are environmentally friendly and/or Fair Trade
• products which have been manufactured from recycled materials
• products which can be disposed of in an environmentally sustainable manner.

The Parish Council will require that contractors and Councillors who carry out maintenance on Parish owned land:

• minimise the use of harmful pesticides and chemicals
• undertake their work in a manner that benefits wildlife and the environment, where practical
• use native, wildflower friendly species for planting schemes, where appropriate
• adhere to the Parish Council’s environmental policy when working for the Parish Council.

In its decision making, the Parish Council will take careful consideration of:

• the importance of walking, cycling and public transport
• the need to conserve and improve natural habitats
• the need to protect vulnerable and protected species[1]

In addition, where the Parish Council has the opportunity, in a way that is both practical and economical, it will:

• encourage the protection and enhancement of the unique character, beauty, heritage and biodiversity within the Parish
• ensure the character and quality of the Parish’s natural beauty and heritage are not compromised by inappropriate development
• highlight the importance and value of our local environment and its contribution to our community’s quality of life
• encourage local action in support of the environment
• protect valued green spaces within the village, including meadow ground and recreation areas including sports and children’s play facilities
• discourage all forms of littering, particularly dog fouling and single use plastics
• encourage conservation and the sustainable use of natural resources
• encourage the efficient use of resources within the Parish by following the principles of reduce, re-use and recycle
• enhance safety for all road users, including pedestrians
• recognise the importance of hedgerows as an essential corridor for the movement of wildlife and which may support many animals and plants.

Review Date: September 2027