Council to oppose airport expansion

BATH and North East Somerset Council will oppose the expansion of Bristol Airport.

The Conservatives and Liberal Democrats expected cross-party support for their joint motion to declare a climate emergency.

But a narrow vote saw Labour take it a step further, saying the aim to make the authority carbon neutral by 2030 was incompatible with Bristol Airport’s plans to bring in millions more passengers.

In a separate effort, more than 2,200 residents signed a petition urging B&NES Council to declare a climate emergency, and members were applauded as the motion – which goes further than neighbouring authorities – was carried.

Lib Dem councillor Rob Appleyard, who brought the motion with Conservative councillor Mark Shelford, said: “This is an ambitious motion as it asks this council to change many ways of thinking, changing priorities.

“Climate consideration should be an accepted part of any conversation and behaviour, of any policy or decision.

“Climate change has the added challenge that we know we have to start achieving these changes from day one and working with partners and the greater community to achieve change.”

The motion recognised that climate change and global temperature increases will have a “devastating impact” around the world, “including on the health, safety and wellbeing of Bath and North East Somerset residents”.

The amendment was carried by 24 votes to 22 against. It then became part of the motion, which was carried.

Bristol City Council and North Somerset Council have also declared climate emergencies.

Anne Brokenbrow isa resident at Stokeleigh Care Home in Stoke Bishop, Bristol