Help to improve your home and tackling waste crime We all care deeply about where we live – from the character of our historic buildings to the quality of our natural environment. As a council we’re working in practical ways to protect what makes our area special while supporting people to make positive changes. One important example is the work we’re doing to make it easier for owners of listed buildings to plan and carry out sensitive energy efficiency improvements. Many people who live in historic homes want to reduce energy use, cut bills and play their part in tackling the climate emergency, but navigating the planning process can feel daunting. We are providing clearer guidance and advice to help residents understand what changes are possible, how to do them well, and how to protect the special character of their buildings at the same time. This approach means we can help more households improve comfort and efficiency while safeguarding our heritage. It is just one strand of our wider commitment to tackling the climate emergency and reducing carbon emissions across our area, working with residents. Looking after nature goes hand in hand with this work. Our natural spaces support wildlife, improve wellbeing and make our towns and villages better places to live. A good example of this is the Wildlife Pond at Wellow Brook Walk in Midsomer Norton, where improvement work is under way to enhance the habitat for plants and animals. Projects like this help boost biodiversity, strengthen local ecosystems and create greener, more welcoming spaces for everyone to enjoy. Protecting our environment also means taking firm action when it is harmed. Waste crime is a growing problem nationally, and it has very real impacts locally – from fly tipping blighting neighbourhoods to unsafe or illegal disposal that risks pollution. Our priority is to protect our environment, deter waste crime and ensure waste is carried and disposed of safely and legally. This week, our waste enforcement officers, supported by Avon & Somerset Police, were out on a joint operation at Hursley Hill, tackling waste offences. Vehicles were also checked for roadworthiness and insurance. A number of drivers are currently assisting our officers with enquiries, and fixed penalty notices are being issued for offences including a lack of proper waste documentation, no registered waste carrier licences, and unsheeted loads. Enforcement is an essential part of keeping Bath & North East Somerset clean, safe and cared for. It also protects responsible businesses that follow the rules and do the right thing. If you are a registered waste carrier, please make sure your paperwork is up to date, your loads are secured, and you can account for where waste comes from and where it is going. If you’re a householder or business arranging waste removal, always check that the person you use is properly licensed. By supporting residents to improve their homes, investing in nature, and taking firm action against environmental crime, we’re working to protect the places we love – now and for future generations. Have a good weekend. A message from Councillor Sarah Warren,
Deputy Leader, Bath & North East Somerset Council | 
Bath Library
