The Climate, Sustainability and Travel Policy and Accountability Committee met to discuss the council's climate and transport policies and to propose a work programme for the upcoming year. The committee noted its terms of reference and received a briefing on its role in scrutiny. A key decision was to adopt a structured approach to the committee's work programme for 2026/27, focusing on key themes related to decarbonisation and sustainable transport.

Climate and Transport Policy Overview and Proposed Work Programme 2026/27

The committee received a presentation from Hinesh Mehta, Assistant Director for Climate Change and Transport, and Tim Pryce, Head of Climate and Energy, outlining the council's current climate and transport policies and priorities. The presentation highlighted ongoing work in areas such as the retrofit of council-owned homes, the transition to clean energy sources, and the expansion of active travel routes.

Councillor Victoria Brignell welcomed the council's efforts, particularly concerning the West Kensington Estate, and inquired about the carbon reduction measures being taken by housing associations. Tim Pryce stated that while direct engagement with housing associations had been limited, the council had mapped their climate commitments, noting that many did not have targets as ambitious as the council's. He suggested future collaboration opportunities through new government powers for heat networks and the council's Healthy Homes service. Councillor Brignell proposed inviting housing associations to a future meeting.

Councillor Stewart Waine questioned the council's strategy for achieving its net-zero target by 2030 without government funding. Tim Pryce explained that government funding was crucial for both enabling and capital investment, particularly for developing heat networks. He stressed the need for continued lobbying for sufficient central government funding.

Councillor Joe Eaton raised concerns about retrofitting private rental properties and the potential conflicts between tenants and landlords. Tim Pryce acknowledged the challenges, noting that the council had legislative tools such as enforcing Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES), which are expected to become more stringent.

The Chair, Councillor Ross Melton, proposed a structured work programme for the committee for the 2026/27 municipal year, focusing on themes such as decarbonising buildings, transport, other emission sources, and enhancing communication and collaboration. He emphasised the committee's role as a constructive advisor to the administration and suggested inviting external experts and including public participation in meetings. Councillor Victoria Brignell requested that Ecology and Biodiversity be added as a future theme, which the Chair agreed to. Councillor Stewart Waine highlighted the importance of resident consultation, and Councillor Joe Eaton suggested including sustainable drainage as a topic.

Discussions also touched upon the relocation of parklets, with Hinesh Mehta promising an update. Regarding electric bike hire companies, Hinesh Mehta clarified that Memoranda of Understanding had been agreed with four operators (Lime, Forest, Voi, and Bolt) to manage operations, and no fines had been issued.

In response to public questions, a resident inquired about additional meetings and improved room layouts for resident participation, which the Chair agreed to consider. Another resident highlighted successful solar installations and expressed interest in identifying more suitable sites. A further resident suggested developing a communications strategy to engage stakeholders and a review of consultation approaches.

Councillor Stewart Waine asked about targets for reducing kerbside parking, and Hinesh Mehta stated that the council was working on a strategy but had no specific targets or discussions around reductions at that time. Councillor Victoria Brignell noted that improved accessibility at Underground stations would encourage a shift away from private car use. A resident stressed the need for more effective communication on the urgency of climate change.

The committee resolved to note its Terms of Reference and the briefing on scrutiny and the role of PACs. It also agreed to the proposed approach to the committee's work programme for 2026/27, with themes to be further developed. The date of the next meeting was set for 3 November 2026.