I believe passionately in protecting our natural environment. As a parent, I want to do all that I can to ensure that the world which we pass on to the next generation is greener and more sustainable. I have joined the Conservative Environment Network's Parliamentary Caucus to campaign on this. I am keeping this webpage updated with the latest support, information, and opportunities. I would also welcome your feedback on this, one of our generation's most important issues.
Conservation and Natural Environment:
- I am a strong advocate of greater protection for our green-belt. I am working with residents to enhance access to green space and ensure that brownfield sites are always considered first when it comes to planning future housing developments.
- As well as being vital habitats for wildlife, I know how important the Smestow Brook and Graiseley Brook are for the health and wellbeing of those who visit them. I am devastated that the quality of our inland waterways has not improved in four years, and I am determined to see them cleaned up. I welcome the steps that the Government is taking on this subject. It will publish a plan for tackling sewage discharges and water companies will be obliged to provide annual data so we can measure progress.
Air Quality:
- Air pollution poses one of the biggest environmental threats to public health. Our ambitious plan is to decarbonise transport, improve air quality, and support more active forms of travel, including the £3.8 billion already investing to clean up our air. Wolverhampton is part of the 2017 UK plan to tackle roadside nitrogen dioxide concentrations. For Wolverhampton, this includes the retrofitting of the existing bus fleet and the implementation of traffic management measures.
Cycling and Walking
- I am pleased that Ministers have pledged to invest an additional £2 billion in cycling and walking and committed to publishing a national cycling plan, as well as an updated Cycling and Walking Investment Strategy. The first stage of this £2 billion investment will be a £250 million emergency active travel fund. The Fund is intended to deliver new pop-up cycle lanes with protected space for cycling, cycle and bus-only corridors, safer junctions and wider pavements. Wolverhampton has received more than £1 million in funding to enhance transport infrastructure and improve access for pedestrians and cyclists.
