Weekly Update from the Chief Executive

Dear Friends

We’ve recently received the news, that a new planning policy, which places an expectation on developers to deliver new homes and buildings in Warwick District that are Net Zero Carbon in terms of regulated energy has received approval from the government’s planning inspector. The policy will now be considered by Cabinet on 15 May, who will determine whether to put this forward for formal adoption by the Council. Reducing the carbon footprint of all buildings is a key priority identified in our corporate strategy. If adopted WDC will be amongst the first councils in the country to implement this planning policy, ensuring that developers play their part in designing homes that do not use fossil fuels, therefore avoiding the need for expensive retrofits when the old-style energy systems become redundant.

In other news:

• We’re counting down to the return of Interactive Futures to the Royal Spa Centre on Friday 10 and Saturday 11 May. The free two-day conference and expo will showcase the many of the biggest names in video games from the local area. It’s therefore a great opportunity for anyone involved in the sector or wanting to find out more to speak directly to creative studios and hear from industry experts. Visit the interactive-futures.com website for tickets and further information.

• With less than a week to go until the Police & Crime Commissioner and Clarendon Ward By-Election on 2 May, we are reminding residents of the legal requirement to show an accepted from of ID (passport, driving license and some concessionary travel passes) or a Voter Authority Certificate when voting at a polling station. Do check out the Electoral Commission website if you are unsure of any aspect of this legislation.

• Anyone with an interest in the future vision for Leamington Town Centre is invited to come along and meet the Transforming Leamington team who have a stall at Covent Garden Market this Sunday between 10am and 4pm. There are also further drop-in events taking place on Wednesday 8 May from 5pm to 7.30pm at 1 Mill Street with an exhibition at Leamington Library (Royal Pump Rooms) from Monday 21 April to Tuesday 21 May.

And finally…. I can’t fail to mention the heroics of the Sky Blues last weekend in the FA Cup when they had most of the country on the edge of their sofas! Following their emphatic win over March Town, wishing the best of luck to Racing Club Warwick FC who play in the United Counties League Premier Division South play off final tomorrow for potential promotion to the next tier. Also not forgetting Leamington FC who in their last match of the season tomorrow could secure their place in the playoffs to secure promotion to the National League North.

Have a great weekend.

Chris Elliott, Chief Executive