Environment plan for East Lothian

The East Lothian Community Planning Partnership (ELCPP) is inviting individuals and organisations in the county to comment on its draft Environment Strategy, which outlines how the county might address environmental challenges in the future.

East Lothian's countryside, which includes beautiful beaches, fertile arable land and the Lammermuir Hills, is among the most attractive in Scotland and an important asset.  Within that environment are sites of historic, natural and cultural interest, renowned golf courses and many opportunities for enjoying outdoor pursuits.

However, in common with other places, East Lothian faces the environmental challenges including:

• Over dependence on depleting finite resources, e.g. as oil and gas
• The pressure of new development
• Declining biodiversity
• The impacts of climate change.

The finalised Strategy will demonstrate a commitment from the ELCPP to address the environmental challenges we face and the steps required to tackle these.

Leader of the Council and Chair of the ELCPP, Councillor Paul McLennan said: "In meeting our environmental responsibilities and creating a sustainable environment for future generations, we have a vision for East Lothian as a place of opportunity with a thriving low carbon economy, healthy communities and a high quality environment for all.

"ELCPP believes that this will be achieved by moving to a low carbon, more localised economy which reduces dependence on finite resources and includes more sustainable forms of land use. Access to a well-cared for natural environment is important for the health and wellbeing of our population. We should also be alert to, and be prepared to meet, any effects of climate change."

Councillor McLennan continued:

"But it is important that we hear from as many people as possible about what they think is the best way forward for the county and its environment. Do you agree with ELCPP's vision and the areas we are concentrating on? Have we missed anything?" 

To join the debate, the draft Environment Strategy can be downloaded from the downloads section at the bottom of this page.  There is also a short consultation questionnaire, which accompanies the Strategy: https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/Elenvironmentstrategyconsultation.

Hard copies of the consultation questionnaire are available at your local library, or by contacting Amber Moss, Sustainable Development Officer, East Lothian Council: T: 01620 827827 or email: sustainability@eastlothian.gov.uk.  The deadline for responses is: Friday, 27th August 2010.