October Report for Samford Division 2025
Nature Recovery in Suffolk
- Suffolk County Council is leading the Local Nature Recovery Strategy (LNRS) to reverse the decline in local wildlife and habitats.
- The strategy, shaped by over 50,000 engagements, aims to create wetlands, restore peatlands, and plant trees.
- Final approval is expected by October, in partnership with Norfolk County Council.
Sustainable Suffolk Investment
- A new investment scheme aims to raise £1 million for local carbon-cutting projects.
- Open to all, with a minimum investment of £5, offering 4% annual interest over five years and matched funding from the Esmée Fairbairn Foundation.
- Projects will run from April 2026 to March 2027.
Solar Together Suffolk
- The group-buying scheme has installed over 32,000 solar panels and 1,768 battery systems in Suffolk homes, reducing 1,900 tonnes of CO₂.
- Free registration for quotes; the scheme also offers battery storage and EV chargepoints.
New Homes in Newmarket
- Edmundham Developments (a partnership with Suffolk County Council) is building new 2–5 bedroom homes at Astley Place.
- Homes feature high energy efficiency, triple glazing, and renewable energy systems.
- Shared ownership options available.
One Suffolk Plan
- Proposal to replace Suffolk’s six councils with a single unitary authority, aiming to save £39.4 million annually after five years.
- The plan promises improved services, lower council tax, and a £40m investment fund for market towns.
- The business case has been submitted to the government for consideration.
Electric Vehicle Safety Operation
- Over £1.3 million of unsafe electric vehicles were seized at Felixstowe Port in a multi-agency operation.
- 340 dangerous electric bikes and scooters were detained, preventing risks to public safety.
Culture Project Fund
- The second year of the £500,000 fund is open for applications, supporting arts and museum projects across Suffolk.
- Grants up to £20,000 are available for organisations and freelancers, with a focus on health, wellbeing, and inclusion.
Firefighters’ Charity Challenges
- Suffolk firefighters completed the Ipswich Half Marathon carrying a stretcher for charity, raising funds for the Fire Fighters Charity and ASD Club.
- Other staff participated in the Autumn Wolf Run, highlighting the importance of mental health support.
NSIP Support for Parish Councils
- A proposal to fund support for parish councils dealing with major infrastructure projects was blocked by Ipswich Borough Council, raising concerns about county-wide cooperation.
Get Suffolk Working
- The new “Connect to Work” programme, backed by £9.5 million, will help over 2,700 residents with health conditions or barriers into employment.
- The strategy focuses on collaboration between health, skills, and employment services.
New Pippins Footbridge
- A new, accessible footbridge has opened in the Gipping Valley, replacing an unsafe structure and improving access for walkers and wheelchair users.