Buckinghamshire Council Climate Change Newsletter – September 2025

Source: Full newsletter

Message from the Cabinet Member

Cllr Carl Jackson, Cabinet Member for Environment, Climate Change and Waste, introduces this edition of the newsletter. He highlights key updates on electric vehicle charging, the Energy Doctor scheme, the Smart Energy Show in Marlow, the Desborough Tiny Forest, and flood management work on the River Leck.

On-Street EV Charging in Wendover

A new trial in Wendover is making EV charging easier for residents without driveways. Following a pilot with in-pavement cable channels, the council has now installed the first five public charge points, with another five due this year.

The project is funded by the East Bucks Community Board and the UK Government’s Local EV Infrastructure Fund. Across Buckinghamshire, there are now 384 publicly accessible charge points, with a goal of reaching 1,000 by the end of 2027.

Energy Doctor Programme

The Energy Doctor scheme, supported by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, has been extended until March 2026. It provides free home visits and advice to eligible households, helping them cut energy bills and carbon emissions through simple improvements like draught-proofing, LED lighting, and radiator panels.

Residents can apply directly or be referred through local organisations.

Smart Energy Show, Marlow

Over 200 people attended the Smart Energy Show at Great Marlow School on 5 April. The event brought together suppliers, experts, and community groups to showcase technologies such as solar panels, battery storage, heat pumps, and insulation.

The aim was to help residents understand their options for managing energy, saving money, and making homes more sustainable.

Tiny Forest Discovery Day, Desborough Recreation Ground

The Tiny Forest planted in December 2024 is flourishing. A Discovery Day welcomed pupils from Millbrook Combined School and local families to take part in citizen science. Activities included measuring tree growth, checking soil health, and spotting wildlife.

The project encourages schools and communities to get involved in tree planting. Support and free trees are available from national organisations such as the Woodland Trust and Tree Council.

River Leck Natural Flood Management Project

Between 2018 and 2024, 41 natural flood management measures were introduced in the River Leck headwaters in partnership with the Freshwater Habitats Trust.

The interventions — including bunds, ponds, wetlands, and woody dams — provide 7,300 cubic metres of temporary water storage (equivalent to over 42,000 bathtubs). These measures reduce flood risk downstream while also improving habitats for wildlife.

Green Pub Club CIC

Independent pubs can now join the Green Pub Club, a not-for-profit scheme helping the hospitality sector cut its environmental impact.

For £30, pubs complete an online self-assessment on energy, waste, and water use. They receive tailored feedback, access to resources, and recognition on the club’s public directory.

Get Involved

The council invites residents and community groups to share their sustainability stories and ideas. Contact: climatechange@buckinghamshire.gov.uk