A message from Cllr Sarah Warren, deputy council leader of Bath & North East Somerset CouncilI am stepping in this week for Councillor Guy and want to take the opportunity to update you on some of the council’s work shaping our community. I’m proud that the council continues to lead the way in addressing the climate emergency. This year, we’ve expanded our tree planting programme, supported more community-led energy projects, and invested in retrofitting public buildings to improve energy efficiency. We’re also working closely with local schools and businesses to promote greener practices and reduce carbon footprints across the district. However, we still have more to do and we are keen to hear your views and experiences around nature loss and climate change in an online survey. By taking part your views will help shape the council’s new Climate and Nature Strategy which is being developed. You can take part in the survey online, printed copies are also available in our libraries: Bath Central, Keynsham and Midsomer Norton. Keynsham Recycling Hub, which has been fully operational for a year is a great example of the council’s commitment to reducing its own carbon footprint. So I am delighted this has been recognised in the Construction Excellence South West awards where we have been shortlisted in the category of Building Project of the Year Over £5m. Entries will be narrowed down to three following a public vote. This week saw the start of Foster Care Fortnight. On behalf of the council I want to thank all our foster carers who support and nurture the children and young people in their care. If you are able to, please take a few minutes to find out how you might be able to transform the lives of children and young people in care. Our fostering team holds regular events in Keynsham Library where you can chat to a social worker to find out more. People can drop in on the first Thursday of each month between 9.30am and 11.30am. Finally, you will see across the Bath lots of great events happening for the Bath Literature Festival and Bath Music Festival running from Saturday 17 May to Sunday 25 May. It all kicks off with the annual Party in the City tomorrow. Don’t forget if you are heading into the city to make use of the extended operating hours at our three Park and Ride sites. Have a great weekend. | 
