Climate Change and Carbon Neutral initiatives

The Town Council has recently resolved to formally recognise the Government and KCC declarations for aiming for Zero Carbon and to integrate this within the vision and throughout the emerging Neighbourhood Development Plan (NDP) and within the Town Council’s general operation.

The Town Council will start work on creation of an Action Plan to review:

• Reducing cars / traffic particularly in relation to school traffic.
• STC new buildings to be as sustainable and eco-friendly as possible. Existing buildings to be improved to be more sustainable with reduced carbon footprint where practicable.
• Include planting of more trees, where possible fruit and nut trees
• Continue to promote Refill Scheme and Sevenoaks Plastic Free Pledge
• Cycle racks / planters to be installed
• Install drinking fountains where possible at STC sites
• Increased safety for pedestrians and cyclists
• NDP Transport Strategy recommendations including 20 mph, one-way system in town centre and shared space.
• Link STC open spaces together with ‘green routes’
• Encourage increased use of public transport – buses and trains by having improved facilities including live running information.
• Install electric car charging points at STC sites
Consider enabling community initiatives for sustainable living e.g. Toy Library, Zero Waste Shop, Community Orchards, Community Cycle Workshops, Repair Café, promotion of alternative resources e.g. nappies.

If members of the public are interested in participating in discussions to develop the local Action Plan to address Climate Change and Carbon Neutral initiatives they are asked to contact the council via council@sevenoakstown.gov.uk

Linda Larter MBE

Chief Executive / Town Clerk

3rd December 2019

2024 Green Community Investment Plan

Sevenoaks Town Council has introduced the Green Community Investment Plan for 2024 to help create a greener and more sustainable community. The plan outlines practical, community-led initiatives designed to reduce the town’s carbon footprint and improve local green spaces.

Key areas of focus include:

Buildings: Enhancing the sustainability of council-owned facilities through energy audits, solar panels, and eco-friendly construction methods.
Transport: Promoting cycling, walking, and public transport, alongside installing electric vehicle charging points and supporting car-sharing schemes.
Greening Sevenoaks: Planting more trees, supporting local wildlife, and linking green spaces with “green routes.”
Consumption: Encouraging waste reduction through refill schemes, plastic-free initiatives, and supporting local sustainable businesses.
Information & Access: Helping residents with practical steps to reduce waste, reuse resources, and recycle more effectively.

Residents can get involved through tree-planting, participating in local green initiatives, or making small changes at home. The Green Community Investment Plan offers ways for everyone to contribute to a more sustainable future for Sevenoaks.

Find out more and see how you can take part in these initiatives!

/_UserFiles/Files/STC Green Community Investment Plan 2024 ADOPTED.pdf

Discover how Sevenoaks Town Council is leading the way in green initiatives, transforming public spaces, and fostering community engagement for a sustainable future. From retrofitting buildings with solar panels to planting more trees each year, and even purchasing ancient woodland to protect local biodiversity—this presentation highlights practical and inspiring steps the council is taking to combat climate change. Whether it’s through electric vehicles, sustainable transport projects, or public gardening programs, this is your chance to see how local actions can have a lasting environmental impact.

Download a PDF Version of this PowerPoint here: (/_UserFiles/Files/STC Green Initiatives.pdf )

Free use of Thermal Imaging Camera

Sevenoaks Town Council is excited to launch a new Thermal Imaging Scheme to assist local residents in identifying cold, damp spots, and areas where heat might be escaping from their homes. This is a great opportunity to make your home more energy-efficient and address potential problems that could be affecting your comfort or energy bills.

How It Works:

The council has purchased two thermal imaging cameras that residents within the parish can borrow for free.

These cameras can detect temperature differences in your home, helping you spot draughts or insulation issues, especially around doors, windows, and ceilings.

When You Can Borrow:

Friday – Monday
Tuesday – Thursday

Weather is an important factor: dark, colder days are best for accurate readings. Please note that on bright, sunny days, exterior scans won’t be possible as the sun may distort results.

How to Get Involved:

The scheme is free, but a late fee of £25 per day will be charged if the camera isn’t returned by the agreed date.

You will need to agree to the Terms and Conditions of borrowing and fill out a short questionnaire to help us improve the scheme.

This is your chance to get ahead of the winter chill, so book your thermal imaging camera now and ensure your home is warm and efficient!

To find out more information or to reserve the Thermal Imaging Camera Please email:

Council@sevenoakstown.gov.uk

Terms & Conditions of Borrowing

Green Tips for Sevenoaks

Download the PDF version here: (/_UserFiles/Files/STC Green tips for Sevenoaks fonts changed.pdf )