Kelvin Clayton demands answers from Dorset’s Cabinet member for Planning
Green Councillor Kelvin Clayton has challenged Dorset Council’s Cabinet member for Planning to make basic home improvements such as double glazing easier for people living in listed buildings, of which there are around 500 in Bridport.
Kelvin said, “It’s ridiculous that given the climate crisis we all face it’s so difficult for Bridport owners to get double glazing for their homes. Double glazing barely shows from the outside and the planning department needs to wake up to the reality of the situation.”
More Help Required for Insulation — Individuals Show What’s Possible
Kelvin recently met with Bridport resident Malcolm Drew who has improved his bungalow’s energy efficiency very significantly over the past 10 years. Like many, the bungalow had significant heat loss from its cavity walls so he put insulation on the inside, added solar panels to the roof, rainwater harvesting and an electric charging point for his car. Of the latter, Malcolm says, “I can go to Bristol and back for just £2.50.”
He is now adding insulation to the outside walls. “This addition alone,” said Malcolm, “can save as much as 38% heat loss for some houses.”
Kelvin says: “Malcolm has demonstrated what can be achieved in an ordinary house. Now he can retire with minimal bills for heating, hot water, and running his car.”
“There are many houses like this in Bridport which could make huge energy savings.”
“We need the UK government to step up here and put their money where their mouth is. A nationwide programme of insulation in both private and social housing would help lower people’s fuel bills and make their homes warmer and more comfortable. It would also create thousands of good jobs and, importantly, reduce carbon emissions.”
Lead Photo © M Etherington (cc-by-sa/2.0)