Nurturing our environment

Protecting the environment is one of the greatest challenges of our generation and a core concern to my constituents. I will:

  • Continue to work closely with Thames Water on their 80% sewage reduction plan for chalk streams;
  • Support local environmental projects and ensure those that are needed are delivered. I have already secured permanent flood reduction measures in Lambourn and the surrounding villages;
  • Work to increase greener travel opportunities. I will work with West Berkshire Council to increase electric vehicle charging points and cycle routes;
  • Support local projects to secure Government funding for environmental protection, such as “Action on the River Kennet”, whom I successfully supported to secure over a quarter of a million pounds from the Green Recovery Fund.

I also join regular litter picks, have campaigned on animal welfare in Parliament and I work regularly with farmers from across West Berkshire on environmental matters and food production.

News

Laura visits Hungerford Home Energy Show

Organised by Hungerford Environmental Action Team (HEAT), Laura was pleased to meet volunteers and exhibitors providing advice on energy efficiency in the home. This included information on solar power, heat pumps and government grants available to help with costs.

Go Green for The Queen!

Following the death of Her Majesty The Queen, and the wishes of the Patron, His Majesty The King, The Queen’s Green Canopy initiative is being extended to the end of March 2023 to give people the opportunity to plant trees in memoriam to honour Her Majesty.

Laura Farris MP hosts roundtable with Farming Minister

Following her meeting with local farmers, and her letter to the Farming Minister to raise the concerns of the farming community, Laura hosted a roundtable meeting with farmers and others from across the sector.

Laura joins forces with Action on the River Kennet

Laura Farris MP has joined forces with Action on the River Kennet (ARK) to measure water quality on the Kennet at Northcroft Park. Laura and ARK conducted two tests that give an idea of run-off from farming and sewage spills.

Newbury Weekly News: tackling storm overflows

In November last year the ground-breaking Environment Act became law, creating a new framework for managing and protecting our natural environment and setting new legal targets for air and water quality.

Laura Farris MP welcomes Housing Secretary's comments on planning policy

At a recent session of the Levelling Up, Housing and Communities Select Committee, the House Secretary Michael Gove said that, future planning policy should "take pressure off some part of the south east" and "make sure communities have control over what happens in their areas."