Sheffield Green Party focuses on climate emergency, housing and transport in the local elections

Every council policy and decision should go towards tackling the climate emergency, says Sheffield Green Party.
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The party hasn’t launched an official manifesto for the local elections but is instead directing people to its Green View pledges and budget.

It’s no surprise that reducing carbon emissions is a lynch pin to their campaign but there’s also a focus on housing, neighbourhood planning, conservation and heritage.

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The policies recognise the pandemic and the shift to home working with pledges that new homes should have adequate space and light, green open space and local facilities with most every day journeys possible by foot or cycling.

Sheffield Green Party councillors are hoping to swell their numbers at the local elections.Sheffield Green Party councillors are hoping to swell their numbers at the local elections.
Sheffield Green Party councillors are hoping to swell their numbers at the local elections.

They say future housing development can be achieved through higher densities within the city centre and a radius of about 1.5 miles or 30 minutes walking time from it.

They suggest new residential districts should follow the rivers Sheaf and the Don so are suitable for walking and cycling routes and include shops, services and green spaces.

Areas highlighted for development include Neepsend, Kelham Island, Norfolk Bridge, Heeley Bottom, Olive Grove Road, East Bank Road, Attercliffe, Carbrook, Darnall and Tinsley.

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If elected they would set aside £1 million of unallocated New Homes Bonus to introduce solar panels on council housing, to generate energy and to reduce tenants’ bills.

Transport also plays a key role: “The principles aim to reduce the need to travel for everyday activities.

“Where travel is needed, policies must promote access on foot, by bike and by public transport and must dissuade private cars and other polluting vehicles.

“All development must come with a clear and firm plan to effectively shorten the distance between home and the city centre or district centres.”

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Walking and cycling would get a £1 million investment, including segregated cycle lanes and secure bike storage.

Other pledges include support for the voluntary sector with a substantial increase of £142,000 for anti-poverty work in advice centres and an increase in the council tax hardship fund to £2 million to protect the poorest families.

The Green View is available here and their budget proposals here

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