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Adaptation Action Plan
December 2009
City of London Corporation Climate Change Adaptation Action Plan
This Adaptation Action Plan relates to the City of London Corporation’s Climate Change Adaptation
Strategy update 2010. The Town Clerk’s Department (Sustainability Unit) will annually review progress
against this Action Plan, based on the items identified in the “monitoring and reporting on progress”
sections for each action. The first progress review will be carried out between January and March 2011.
Contents
THE BUSINESS CITY, PHYSICAL INFRASTRUCTURE AND PROPERTY
2
RISK AREA: FLOODING
2
RISK AREA: WATER RESOURCES
6
RISK AREA: HEATWAVES AND AIR POLLUTION
9
RISK AREA: SUBSIDENCE AND HEAVE
11
RISK AREA: CROSS-CUTTING ISSUES
12
PEOPLE, COMMUNITY AND CULTURE
15
RISK AREA: WATER RESOURCES
15
RISK AREA: HEATWAVES
17
RISK AREA: CROSS-CUTTING ISSUES
20
GREEN SPACES AND BIODIVERSITY
21
RISK AREA: WATER RESOURCES
21
RISK AREA: HEATWAVES
24
RISK AREA: SUBSIDENCE AND HEAVE
26
RISK AREA: CROSS-CUTTING ISSUES
27
ENVIRONMENTAL AND PUBLIC HEALTH
28
RISK AREA: FLOODING
28
RISK AREA: HEATWAVES AND AIR POLLUTION
30
RISK AREA: CROSS-CUTTING ISSUES
34
CONTINGENCY PLANNING
36
RISK AREA: FLOODING
36
RISK AREA: WATER RESOURCES
38
APPENDIX – RESPONSIBILITIES FOR DELIVERY
39
Adaptation Action Plan – The Business City, Physical Infrastructure and Property
December 2009
The Business City, Physical Infrastructure and Property
Risk Area: Flooding
Adaptation
F1. Assign responsibility for coordination and liaison on flood risk
Action
management.
Lead department
Probably Town Clerk’s (Contingency Planning Other
DES
(and individual)
Team), from April 2010/11
departments /
Planning
responsible
partners involved
Drain London Partners,
Town Clerk (Contingency
Planners)
Actions completed to
Interim lead agreed on 23 October: Planning
date
Actions to be taken
F1.1
To ensure practical implementation of flood risk management.
next
F1.2
Ongoing reporting against NI 189.
F1.3
Continue to liaise with Environment Agency and Thames Water matters related to flood
risk
Barriers to action
Contingency Planning team was under-staffed in December 2009; this has been overcome by
establishing Planning in the interim as lead.
Possible adverse
Communication and cooperation between departments and external agencies must function well. The
impacts of the action
action plan on NI 189 has been agreed as a basis for communication.
& how these will be
managed
Action start date
Action due date F1.1
Action Plan to be agreed with
Environment Agency by December
2009
F1.2
Reporting on NI 189 by end of
financial year 2009/10
Monitoring and
F1.1
to collect data and report under NI 189 for 2009/10
reporting on progress
F1.2
Contingency Planning Team to collect data and report under NI 189 for 2010/11.
Adaptation
F2. Identify, map and manage risk in flash flood hotspots.
Action
Lead department (and Planning
has taken the lead to
Other
City Surveyors, possibly
individual) responsible date
departments /
Thames Water
DES
partners involved
Town Clerk’s (Contingency Planning: F2.3)
Actions completed to
F2.1
The Strategic Flood Risk Assessment (SFRA),published in 2007 by Planning
date
), has identified risks of flooding from a range of sources and produced flood
risk maps identifying areas where flooding is an important consideration in
development planning, business planning and emergency planning. This assessment
has been done based on historic data of past flood events, data available at postcode
scale, and topography (but only to some extent). A more detailed (finer scale) map of
surface water flood risk, which differentiates risk within postcodes. is due to be
prepared as part of the Drain London project. This will feed into the review of the
SFRA and Surface Water Management Plan.
Adaptation Action Plan – The Business City, Physical Infrastructure and Property
December 2009
developing a green roof monitoring framework that wil monitor presence of a green
roof (with no assessment of biodiversity, flood risk or air quality value).
This is
different from the existing list of buildings that have a planning condition requiring
green roofs.
F4.3
Planning (policy team) to encourage green roofs though policy, information and
other elements of the planning process. Consider implementing an award scheme at
a later date.
F4.4
Town Clerk’s (Sustainability Unit) to run a workshop for CPAT and Investment
property stakeholders on Green Leases as a process for covering a range of climate
change adaptation issues, like SuDS.
F4.5
Planning (Street Scene team,
) and DES
) to
introduce sustainable drainage systems into scheme evaluations.
Barriers to action
Developers are sometimes reluctant to install green roofs because they prefer hard surfaces so they
can use them as open air terraces. Also, green roofs face competition for roof space on buildings
from other climate-related measures, namely photovoltaics (PV), solar panels and rainwater
harvesting.
Possible adverse
impacts of the action
Action start date
F4.2
April 2010
Action due date
F4.2
Ongoing
F4.3
N/A
F4.3
Ongoing through pre
F4.4
April 2010
application discussions
F4.5
December 2010
F4.4
June 2010
F4.5
Ongoing
Monitoring and
F 4.2 Undecided who should monitor implementation of green roofs. They contribute to open
reporting on progress
spaces and biodiversity so could be part of Open Spaces’ monitoring. This should be
discussed with
(Planning). A green roof monitoring network is currently
being developed by his team, which can be used for monitoring and reporting.
F4.3 Reference to adaptation in policy documents and publications
F4.4 Evidence of stakeholder workshop
F4.5 Scheme evaluation documentation
Adaptation
F5. The LDF should require that drainage systems in all developments
action
have the capacity to cope with heavier rainfall events expected over
their lifetimes.
Lead department (and
Planning (
Other
individual) responsible
DES (District Surveyors: F5.2)
departments /
partners involved
Actions completed to
F5.1
The draft LDF Core Strategy policy on Sustainable Development and Climate
date
Change includes the requirement for buildings and their surroundings to be
designed for the climate conditions likely to be encountered during their lifetime.
This document will be subject to external consultation and examination in public
prior to expected adoption in 2011. This issue should also be addressed through the
Surface Water Management Plan discussed above (Adaptation Actions F2 and F3).
Actions to be taken next
F5.2
District Surveyors to engage with DCLG (Department of Communities and Local
Government), encouraging them to amend Part H of Building Regulations to
incorporate capacity to cope with heavier rainfal due to climate change into
provisions for design of gutters and rainfall pipes. District Surveyors to discuss this
with the Adapting to Climate Change (ACC) programme team (Defra) as ACC
Adaptation Action Plan – The Business City, Physical Infrastructure and Property
December 2009
coordinates and drives forward the development of the Government’s work in this
area.
Barriers to action
Revisions to Building Regulations will be key in bringing about change to building design and are
controlled by central government. Revisions probably fol ow a timetable prescribed by DCLG.
Possible adverse
impacts of the action
Action start date
F5.2 2010/11
Action due date
F5.2 in line with AD’H’
review
Monitoring and reporting F5.2 TBC
on progress
Adaptation
F6. CoL should consider installing SuDS (permeable paving, green
action
roofs, green walls) on CoL-owned car parks and buildings, when they
are refurbished or replaced.
Lead department (and
Town Clerk’s (F6.2)
Other
Economic Development Office
individual) responsible
departments /
(CPAT), City Surveyors
partners involved (Investment Properties
Division),
City Surveyor’s (Corporate
Properties Division),
Planning
Actions completed to
F6.1
Where feasible, planning permissions are subject to a ‘green roof condition’. This
date
would apply to any redevelopment proposals for CoL car parks and buildings.
Actions to be taken next
F6.2
Town Clerk’s (Sustainability Unit) to look into opportunities available through the
Carbon Reduction Commitment (CRC) and Green Lease mechanisms to integrate
SuDS features on new developments and as part of major refurbishment projects.
Barriers to action
Refurbishment may not be subject to planning permission so there are limited opportunities to
address this action for existing buildings.
There is a perception among officers that CoL budgeting uses short payback periods that do not
facilitate consideration of long term sustainability issues. It is important to provide more transparent
information about the Chamberlain’s assessment and consideration of payback periods to staff and
Members.
A number of investment properties have been bought with a view to enable new development on
the site. Their planned lifetime may be shorter than estimated payback periods of SuDS or other
sustainability improvements.
Possible adverse
impacts of the action
Action start date
2011
Action due date
Monitoring and
Planning does not have the resources to check that conditions in planning permissions have been
reporting on progress
implemented on a development by development basis. However, it should be possible to ensure
that implementation of this action is monitored for CoL-owned property, e.g. through the regular
property review.
Adaptation Action Plan – The Business City, Physical Infrastructure and Property
December 2009
Risk Area: Water resources
Adaptation
W1. Planning, City Surveyors and Barbican Centre to
action
encourage best practice in water efficiency.
Lead department (and
Planning,
Other departments Barbican Centre
individual) responsible City Surveyors (
W1.4, W1.5,
/ partners involved
W1.6),
Town Clerk’s (W1.6)
Actions completed to
W1.1
Planning: The draft LDF core strategy policies on Utilities Infrastructure and
date
Sustainable Development and Climate Change and Flood Risk include the
requirement for buildings to incorporate measures to conserve water resources
(and reduce impact on the drainage system). This document will be subject to
external consultation and examination in public prior to expected adoption in 2011.
W1.2
The Barbican Centre is looking at rainwater harvesting and have worked on
making water usage as efficient as possible, but more work is needed to tackle the
water use and efficiency of existing appliances.
W1.3
City Surveyor’s (energy team) are tracking water use in CoL and provide an Annual
Report (only for the larger and medium operational buildings). This report identifies
water use through Corporations’ water bill and water meters (where possible).
Actions to be taken
W1.4
City Surveyors to aim to achieve BREEAM status excellent (which includes water
next
efficiency) for CoL-owned new developments and major refurbishments.
W1.5
City Surveyors to compile a list of the positive actions undertaken within CoL by
City Surveyors for water efficiency purposes.
W1.6
Town Clerk’s and City Surveyor’s to run an internal communications campaign
aimed at behavioural changes to reduce water usage.
Barriers to action
LDF only applies to new developments and not to the water efficiency of existing stock in the rest of
the City and in open spaces.
There is currently no legal requirement that existing building stock should have water meters
making it difficult to track al buildings’ water use.
It is hard to set blanket targets for reducing water consumption - this would have to be assessed
individually based on the building in question.
Possible adverse
impacts of the action
Action start date
Action due date
W1.4
As appropriate
W1.5
By end of financial year
2009/10
W1.6
End of 2010/11 2010
Monitoring and
W1.4
Accreditation proof
reporting on progress
W1.5
To be included in NI 188 evidence
W1.6
Internal report on outcomes
Adaptation Action Plan – The Business City, Physical Infrastructure and Property
December 2009
Adaptation
W2. The City of London Corporation LDF should require rainwater
action
harvesting and greywater recycling, where appropriate, in all new
developments.
Lead department (and Planning (W2.3)
Other
individual) responsible
departments /
partners
involved
Actions completed to
W2.1
As described under Action W1, the LDF draft core strategy policies on Utilities
date
Infrastructure and Sustainable Development and Climate Change and Flood Risk
include the requirement for buildings to incorporate measures to conserve water
resources (and reduce impact on the drainage system). This document wil be
subject to external consultation and examination in public prior to expected adoption
in 2011.
W2.2
Water efficiency in new dwellings and flats will be controlled under the Building
Regulations Requirement G2 which comes into force in April 2010.
This requires that water consumption be limited to 125 litres per person per
day using the 'Water Efficiency Calculator for New Dwellings' and a notice to
that effect must be given to the Building Control Body. The calculator
encourages the use of efficient fittings and appliances and 'non-wholesome'
water such as harvested rainwater or reclaimed greywater for toilet flushing
etc.This new Part G does not make provision for water efficiency in other
types of building.
Actions to be taken
W2.3
Planning to develop Supplementary Planning Document on Design that would
next
provide more detailed guidance on technologies for water efficiency. This is only to
be done in the event that the GLA’s forthcoming SPD does not adequately cover
issues relevant to CoL, as there is a lot of guidance already available so Planning
will only be developing guidance on issues which are City specific. (There are a
number of examples of SPGs from other regions that could be drawn upon to help
develop this.)
Barriers to action
Possible adverse
impacts of the action
Action start date
W2.3 TBC
Action due date
W2.3
The GLA's schedule for
publication of Supplementary
Planning documents is currently
under review. The London Plan
has new policies covering
climate change and is out for
consultation now with a deadline
of 12th Jan.
Monitoring and
W2.3 availability of adequate guidance
reporting on progress
Adaptation
W3. City of London Corporation should investigate feasibility and cost
action
of incorporating rainwater harvesting systems in its operational
properties, gardens and large open spaces where appropriate.
Lead department (and Planning (W3.3),
Other
Open Spaces (
superintendent of
individual) responsible
departments /
West Ham Parks and City Gardens
Adaptation Action Plan – The Business City, Physical Infrastructure and Property
December 2009
City Surveyor’s (W3.2, W3.3),
partners
Town Clerk’s (W3.4, W3.5)
involved
Actions completed to
W3.1
Any redevelopment at these sites would be subject to Core Strategy policies on
date
Flood Risk, Sustainable Design & Climate Change and Utilities Infrastructure.
However, existing development is the responsibility of the building owner – for City
of London owned buildings, this sits with City Surveyors.
Actions to be taken
W3.2
City Surveyors to investigate feasibility and costs as outlined under Adaptation
next
Action W3.
W3.3
Planning and City Surveyors to draw together case studies of successful
rainwater harvesting projects, to highlight what is currently being done. Successful
examples include Queens Park (uses a rainwater harvesting system to capture and
store water in the winter for irrigation in the summer) and the Freemen’s School
(uses a Victorian rainwater harvesting system).
W3.4
Town Clerk’s to promote case studies of successful rainwater harvesting projects,
as per W3.3.
W3.5
Town Clerk’s to meet with TfL to confirm that they have thoroughly investigated
possibilities around rainwater harvesting systems for instal ation on roofs of
mainline, DLR and tube stations. It is known that TfL have developed their own
targets and plans for climate change-related actions.
Barriers to action
Financial constraints – rainwater harvesting can be a very expensive undertaking. There is no money
available for most rainwater harvesting and greywater use schemes, and in order to successfully
implement them, they must be built into long term building maintenance plans.
In some developments, there may be no available space to store the water harvested.
Tenants may have to finance some of the measures for installing rainwater harvesting systems, as in
Spitalfields Market, which may discourage them from supporting such actions.
Possible adverse
Rainwater harvesting is not always the most sensible solution. Possible adverse impacts may occur if
impacts of the action
rainwater harvesting systems are recommended indiscriminately, without weighing up how well it
compares to other systems such as green roofs and water efficiency measures.
Action start date
W3.2
2011/12
Action due date
W3.2 2011/12 (expensive action to
W3.3
TBC
undertake)
W3.4
2011/12
W3.3 By end of 2010/11
W3.5
N/A
W3.4 Ongoing
W3.5 By May 2010
Monitoring and
W3.2
Availability of report
reporting on progress
W3.3
Availability of case studies
W3.4
Availability of case studies
W3.5
Meeting notes
Adaptation Action Plan – The Business City, Physical Infrastructure and Property
December 2009
Risk Area: Heatwaves and Air Pollution
Adaptation
H1. As part of sustainable design, new buildings should be designed to
action
provide a comfortable internal environment in the face of climate
change, with the least use of energy over their lifetimes, and cooling
systems should maximise the use of natural ventilation and low-carbon
cooling techniques. For existing buildings, identify those most at risk of
overheating and make plans to manage this.
Lead department (and Planning,
Other
individual) responsible City Surveyors (Energy team: H1.4, H1.5)
departments /
partners
involved
Actions completed to
H1.1
The draft core strategy policy on Sustainable Development and Climate Change
date
requires the highest viable standards of sustainability to be integrated into the design
of each proposed development. This document will be subject to external
consultation and examination in public prior to expected adoption in 2011.
H1.2
The City Surveyor’s (energy team) is in the process of implementing a 'set rule
temperature policy' in the Guildhall complex, where a maximum temperature is set
for air conditioned spaces and a maximum temperature is set for inside heating. The
maximum legal heating limit is 19˚C in offices.
H1.3
Commercial buildings currently apply a system of ‘consequential improvements’,
which comes from Regulation 17D of the Building Regulations1, whereby the owner
of the building must spend 10% of the cost of the principal works should be used to
carry out improvements to thermal elements such as upgrading heating controls,
replacing windows or installing energy efficient lighting, which give a payback time of
15 years. This system does not currently apply to dwellings, but Part L of the
Building Regulations has been subject to a review this year and consequential
improvements may cover dwellings when the new document comes into force in
2010.
Actions to be taken
H1.4
City Surveyors to carry out an in-house questionnaire to identify which existing
next
building are most at risk of overheating. All properties should have already
undertaken a 'risk' assessment to determine if any part of their building is susceptible
to overheating and indeed flooding or subsidence, or any other aspect of climate
change.
H1.5
City Surveyors to carry out a risk assessment to identify which kinds of properties
(both operational and investment properties) are most at risk of overheating
Barriers to action
There are many old, lightweight buildings that have been designed according to older legislation that
will start to overheat as the climate warms, and for which the only solution is likely to be air
conditioning. This solution will require more energy use and will ultimately impact carbon reduction
commitment (CRC) targets.
There is a legal requirement for the minimum temperature in an office building, but a maximum
temperature has not been defined by law yet.
Possible adverse
impacts of the action
1 This is triggered when a building this size either has an extension, has an initial provision of any fixed building services, or has an increase
to the installed capacity of any fixed building services installation.
Adaptation Action Plan – The Business City, Physical Infrastructure and Property
December 2009
Action start date
H1.4
TBC
Action due date
H1.4 By end of 2010/2011
H1.5
2012/13
H1.5 TBC
Monitoring and
H1.4
Questionnaire outcomes available
reporting on progress
H1.5
Assessment outcomes report
Adaptation
H2. The City of London Corporation should liaise with electricity
action
providers to the City to ensure security of supply for City buildings and
infrastructure, taking account of climate impacts on seasonal
demands.
Lead department (and
Economic Development Office (CPAT: H2.4) Other
individual) responsible
departments /
partners involved
Actions completed to
H2.1
CPAT has been in ongoing contact with occupiers, developers and EDF Energy to
date
ensure appropriate capacity and resilience is built into the power networks. CPAT
has informed EDF of future growth scenarios and advised where development
activity will occur. CPAT provided a co-ordinated response from City businesses
and the property industry to the Distribution Price Control Review document that
EDF issued in 2008, as this review forms the basis for the tariff review by the
industry regulator, Ofgem. Ofgem will be delivering their verdict on EDF's DPCR5
process on December 6th 2009, which will determine the amount of money that can
be invested in the City's electricity supply network from 2010-2015
H2.2
CPAT is looking at the resilience of substations and the need for new substations.
H2.3
CPAT continue to meet with EDF on a regular basis to review issues with
distribution of electricity supply and customer connections and to understand more
about capital works and network improvement programmes. CPAT will also co-
host regular stakeholder seminars with EDF which will be attended by developers
and occupiers throughout the Square Mile.
Actions to be taken
H2.4
Future CHP (combined heat and power) energy centres could provide a low carbon
next
form of cooling that would lessen the load on the electricity network in extreme
events such as heatwaves. CPAT has commissioned a feasibility study looking into
delivery of a comprehensive Decentralised Energy network across the Square Mile.
CPAT to communicate the recommendations of the report to other departments
once it is completed and assess if, how and on what timescale CHP energy centres
could contribute to energy security in times of extreme events and seasonal
demands.
Barriers to action
Possible adverse
impacts of the action
Action start date
Action due date
H2.4. The feasibility study
commissioned by CPAT
will be completed in
Spring 2010
Monitoring and
H2.4 Availability of research findings
reporting on progress
Adaptation Action Plan – The Business City, Physical Infrastructure and Property
December 2009
Risk Area: Subsidence and Heave
Adaptation
S1. Keep a watching brief on the incidence of subsidence in CoL-
action
owned property outside the City, to ascertain whether the problem
increases as the climate changes. (The Square Mile itself is not
affected by subsidence). When underpinning existing buildings
already affected by subsidence, building owners should ensure the
underpinning is sufficient to cope with climate change.
Lead department (and
DCCS (Housing Services Division,
Other
City Surveyor’s
individual) responsible
S1.1)
departments /
partners involved
Actions completed to
The only properties which are experiencing subsidence are the City of London Almshouses. The
date
insurers are starting work on these premises w/c 25 January 2010. The work is expected to be
completed within 3 months.
Actions to be taken next
S1.1 Housing Division to determine when to review this action again in the future and to
consider whether more action is needed.
Barriers to action
Possible adverse
impacts of the action
Action start date
S1.1. January 2010
Action
S1.1. ongoing
completion date
Monitoring and reporting S1.1. meeting minutes
on progress
Adaptation Action Plan – The Business City, Physical Infrastructure and Property
December 2009
Risk Area: Cross-cutting issues
Adaptation
C1. The City of London Corporation should thoroughly address climate
action
adaptation in the Sustainability Appraisal (SA) of the LDF.
Lead department (and
Planning (C1.1)
Other departments /
individual) responsible
partners involved
Actions completed to
C1.1
The SA of the LDF tests policy options against the objective “to anticipate prepare for
date
and adapt to the impacts of climate change”.
Actions to be taken
C1.2
Revisit the SA of the LDF, and submit the final SA report with the Core Strategy,
next
Barriers to action
Possible adverse
impacts of the action
Action start date
Action due date
C1.2 Final SA report to accompany the
Core Strategy when it is submitted
to the Planning Inspectorate in
summer 2010
Monitoring and
C1.2 Content of SA
reporting on progress
Adaptation
C2. Develop Supplementary Planning Guidance on climate change
action
adaptation for the LDF.
Lead department (and
Planning (C2.2)
Other
individual) responsible
departments /
partners involved
Actions completed to
C2.1
The LDF will be subject to external consultation and examination in public prior to
date
expected adoption in 2011. It includes many policies that address climate change
adaptation.
Actions to be taken next
C2.2
Because the LDF can not get into detail / too many specifics, Supplementary
Planning Guidance could be developed, specifically focused on adaptation. This is
to be done in the event that the GLA’s guidance does not adequately cover issues
relevant to CoL. Various other planning authorities have produced SPGs on
adaptation that could be used to develop this. (Details are available from UKCIP).
Barriers to action
Possible adverse
impacts of the action
Action start date
C2.2 TBC – after GLA has published its
Action due date
C2.2. TBC
guidance
Monitoring and reporting C2.2. Availability of appropriate guidance
on progress
Adaptation Action Plan – The Business City, Physical Infrastructure and Property
December 2009
Adaptation
C3. The City of London Corporation should review design standards
action
and codes of practice for assets, infrastructure and services, to
identify those that include climatic factors. Based on the outcome of
the review, the City of London Corporation should consider upgrading
design standards and codes of practice where required to take
account of predicted climate changes.
Lead department (and
Chief Officers Sustainability Working Group
Other
Town Clerk’s, City Surveyors,
individual) responsible
(C3.3)
departments /
Planning,
Planning and Transportation
partners involved
, policy, design,
conservation, transportation and street scene:
C3.4)
Actions completed to
C3.1
Climate change adaptation will be considered by City Surveyors and Planning in
date
revising design standards and codes of practice.
C3.2
A review of materials and best practice for street enhancements is being
undertaken in order to improve sustainability standards in the Street Scene Manual.
Actions to be taken next
C3.3
Chief Officers Sustainability Working Group to identify what other departments
have similar manuals that need to be revised in light of climate change data.
C3.4
Departmental area-based spatial strategies to include input from al divisions in the
Planning and Transportation Department (policy, design, conservation,
transportation and street scene), focusing on sustainability requirements of the
area.
Barriers to action
Possible adverse
impacts of the action
Action start date
C3.3 2010/11
Action due date
C3.3 TBC
C3.4 December 2010
C3.4 ongoing
Monitoring and
C3.3 Meeting minutes
reporting on progress
C3.4 Meeting minutes
Adaptation
C4. The City of London Corporation should integrate adaptation
action
considerations into purchasing and tendering.
Lead department (and
Chamberlain’s (C4.1), Town Clerk’s (C4.1)
Other
individual) responsible
departments /
partners involved
Actions completed to
date
Actions to be taken next
C4.1
Town Clerk’s to work with
Chamberlain’s to establish how / which procurement
codes and tender documents could incorporate adaptation. The LCCP publication on
public procurement and purchasing could be used to facilitate this.
Barriers to action
Possible adverse
impacts of the action
Action start date
C4.1 2010/11
Action due date
C4.1 December 2010
Adaptation Action Plan – The Business City, Physical Infrastructure and Property
December 2009
Monitoring and
C4.1 Procurement strategy and related guidance documents
reporting on progress
Adaptation Action Plan – People, Community and Culture
December 2009
People, Community and Culture
Risk Area: Water resources
Adaptation
W4. Develop a co-ordinated and sustained awareness-raising campaign
action
aimed at City businesses, property developers and residents regarding
water use and water efficiency.
Lead department
City Surveyors (Energy Team,
Other
(and individual)
W4.3, W4.5),
departments /
responsible
Town Clerk’s (Sustainability team: W4.4, partners
W4.6),
involved
Open Spaces
W4.8),
Barbican (
W4.7)
Economic Development Office (CPAT:
W4.9; W4.10)
Actions completed
W4.1
The City Surveyors / CPAT have produced a folder entitled “Sustainable
to date
Management” into which inserts can be incorporated. Inserts have been
obtained from Thames Water and the Carbon Trust providing guidance on
water and energy efficiency. These folders are disseminated to businesses
and property developers at appropriate events and at one to one meetings, or
when general support information is given out.
W4.2
The Barbican Centre Sustainability Group has proved to be a useful forum and
have trained up head chefs to become more water efficient so they can in turn
train their catering crews. This has been found to be successful in raising more
awareness among staff on water efficiency issues.
Actions to be taken
W4.3
City Surveyors to clarify what water saving measures the City Surveyors
next
Management Team use.
W4.4
Town Clerk’s
to arrange for a City Environmental Forum
meeting to be held on the topic of water efficiency and how to improve it. Use
this meeting to determine whether the Barbican Centre Sustainability Group
model could be implemented in bigger firms as well.
W4.5
City Surveyors to profile the energy use associated with water use through the
CoL EnergyTeam (
W4.6
Town Clerk’s
to contact
at Defra to express
interest in a ‘Green Plumbers’ training scheme (with a focus on facilities
management) to see if there is interest in Defra to initiate such a scheme at a
national level.
W4.7
Barbican Centre (
to model Barbican Centre Sustainability
Group practices in CoL kitchens.
W4.8
The
Open Spaces Department has several water bodies (ponds) where
leaking is occurring. It may be very expensive to repair these. Open Spaces
) is currently working with the City Surveyors department to resolve
the issue. A plan of action is being developed to address the issue.
W4.9
CPAT to update information in the sustainability folder as necessary.
Adaptation Action Plan – People, Community and Culture
December 2009
W4.10
CPAT to assist future action to raise awareness amongst businesses and
property developers, in addition to disseminating the sustainability folder.
Barriers to action
Water usage and related energy usage is not metered to sufficient detail in some CoL
buildings (this is not a legal requirement), so that it is difficult to make an economic case for
undertaking the suggested profile “energy use from water”.
There is a lack of resources for implementation of water efficiency measures.
CoL do not have the same catering staff coming in all the time so one training round for
action W4.7 will not be sufficient. Other awareness raising measures, such as posters will
need to be considered.
Possible adverse
impacts of the action
Action start date
W4.3
N/A
Action due date
W4.3 April 2010
W4.4
N/A
W4.4 By April 2010
W4.5
TBC
W4.5 April 2010
W4.6
N/A
W4.6 May 2010
W4.7
TBC
W4.7 TBC
W4.8
N/A
W4.8 End of 2010/11
W4.9
TBC
W4.9 June 2010
W4.10
April 2010
W4.10 ongoing
Monitoring and
W4.3
List of measures available
reporting on
W4.4
CEF meeting notes
progress
W4.5
Availability of figures
W4.6
Defra response
W4.7
TBC
W4.8
Action plan
W4.9
Information provided in the folder
W4.10
TBC
Adaptation Action Plan – People, Community and Culture
December 2009
Risk Area: Heatwaves
Adaptation
H3. CoL should identify residents most vulnerable to heat stress
action
(elderly, young, homeless and those with existing health problems) and
ensure they are regularly visited during heatwaves. CoL should raise
awareness of heat risks.
Lead department
DCCS (H3.3, H3.4, H3.5, H3.6),
Other
DES
(and individual)
departments /
responsible
partners
involved
Actions completed
H3.1
DCCS has incorporated arrangements to visit all residents who are identified
to date
as vulnerable during heat waves within established systems such as Home
Care, as part of the National Heatwave Plan.
H3.2
Sir John Cass school has its own plan in place for managing with heatwave
conditions and guidance notes have been provided for nurseries
Actions to be taken
H3.3
DCCS to identify what the current level of awareness of heat risk is, in
next
nurseries and should train nursery staff in how to behave in heat waves and
how to manage health risks for small children. The school to be asked to provide
any local advice to children at the school and nursery.
H3.4
DCCS to compile a report on the health impacts from heatwaves to residents,
visitors and workers, for the Health Scrutiny Sub Committee, identifying what
has been done so far to coordinate PCT work on heat wave with CoL actions.
H3.5
DCCS to assess risks for pupils at John Cass primary school, such as
overheating in classrooms and getting sunburnt on playgrounds, and discuss
with staff at the school.
Barriers to action
Lack of resources for implementation.
Possible adverse
impacts of the action
Action start date
H3.3
January 2010
Action due date
H3.3
March 2010
H3.4
January 2010
H3.4
April 2010
H3.5
January 2010
H3.5
March 2010
Monitoring and
H3.3
Local policies
reporting on
H3.4
Report
progress
H3.5
Local policies
Adaptation
H4. The City of London Corporation should aim to ensure that water is
action
freely available in the City for people during heatwaves.
Lead department (and Planning (
Street Scene:
Other
DES
individual) responsible H4.4, H4.5)
departments /
DES (H4.3)
partners
involved
Adaptation Action Plan – People, Community and Culture
December 2009
Actions completed to
H4.1
CoL’s Drinking Fountain Initiative involves the repair of historic drinking fountains and
date
installing 50 new fountains in the City. Planning is working with Thames Water and the
Drinking Water Association.
H4.2
Approval of new drinking fountain to be installed in Carter Lane Gardens.
Actions to be taken
H4.3
According to a survey done by Planning, people are wary of using fountains. If the
next
Drinking Fountain Initiative goes through,
DES/ Cleansing will need to raise
awareness about their safety, hygiene and existence through a campaign addressed
to residents, visitors and workers.
H4.4
Planning (Street Scene,
to restore St. Lawrence Fountain in Carter
Lane Gardens.
H4.5
First new drinking Fountain to be installed by
Planning (Street Scene,
).
Barriers to action
Resources needed, possibly from partnering with GLA.
Possible adverse
impacts of the action
Action start date
Action due date
H4.3
Evaluation of the
initiative is due to
be reported in
January 2010 -
further progress will
follow the outcomes
of these findings
H4.4
December 2010
H4.5
February 2010
Monitoring and
H4.3
Outcome of report
reporting on progress
H4.4
Fountain functioning and being used
H4.5
Fountain functioning and being used
Adaptation
H5. CoL should encourage Transport for London and tube companies
action
to do all possible to manage high temperatures on the underground
and make the underground environment more comfortable.
Lead department
City Surveyors (H5.2)
Other
TfL, London Chamber of
(and individual)
Planning (Transportation and projects
departments /
Commerce (H5.6)
responsible
division,
H5.3, H5.4, H5.5,
partners
H5.6, H5.7),
involved
Actions completed
H5.1
CoL have encouraged TfL to install displays outside tube stations, showing
to date
underground temperatures.
Actions to be taken
H5.2
If Drinking Fountain Initiative goes ahead, Planning
(Street Scene,
next
to consider placing some fountains near tube stations as part of the
design report.
H5.3
Planning (Transportation and projects division) to encourage TfL to reduce
unnecessary heat generation in tube stations e.g. by turning off LCD monitors
alongside tube escalators on hot days.
Adaptation Action Plan – People, Community and Culture
December 2009
H5.4
Planning to request an update from TfL on the latest situation with developing
a ventilation system for the Tube.
H5.5
Planning to investigate S106 money or other planning gain tools that can be
directed towards refurbishing tube stations in the City, including provision of
cooling as part of this.
H5.6
(London Chamber of Commerce) to discuss with colleagues
whether it would be useful to write a letter to TfL on the behalf of London
Chamber of Commerce (who have regular dialogue with TfL on a variety of
different topics) – to voice concerns over public health and business impacts
when temperatures on the tube become too hot.
Barriers to action
Possible adverse
impacts of the
action
Action start date
H5.2
April 2010
Action due
H5.2
December 2010
H5.3
TBC
date
H5.3
TBC
H5.4
TBC
H5.4
TBC
H5.5
TBC
H5.5
TBC
H5.6
TBC
H5.6
TBC
Monitoring and
H5.2
TBC
reporting on
H5.3
TBC
progress
H5.4
TBC
H5.5
TBC
H5.6
TBC
Adaptation Action Plan – People, Community and Culture
December 2009
Risk Area: Cross-cutting issues
Adaptation
C5. The City of London Corporation should review existing measures in
action
place for managing health and safety risks to people when they are
outside to see whether they provide sufficient protection against
changing climate risks. (For example, educating outside staff on sun
safety and ensuring that clothing has a sufficient SPF/ providing shade
in school playgrounds.)
Lead department
Town Clerk’s (
- Health
Other
DCCS (schools), Open Spaces
(and individual)
Manager: C5.3),
departments /
responsible
Town Clerk’s (Learning and Development partners
Unit,
: C5.4)
involved
DES (
: C5.5)
Actions completed
C5.1.
The Open Spaces Department has educated its staff in sun-safety. There are
to date
sun cream stations in some Open Spaces’ mess rooms for staff to use and the
department has also issued sun glasses and hats. Notices go up on the notice
boards when it is hot, to advise the public about drinking water and protecting
themselves.
C5.2.
DES have a number of outdoor workers (e.g. street cleaners) that have taken
the same actions.
Actions to be taken
C5.3.
Town Clerk’s (
to I identify what the Health & Safety team are
next
doing with respect to sun health and safety and determine whether it is best
practice. If yes, extend this to other workers.
C5.4.
Contact
about creating a program similar to the training program
in manual handling at the airport for sun health and safety.
C5.5.
DES to look into upgrading existing CoL code of best practice for construction
workers to incorporate risks to outdoor workers from summertime heat stress
and UV exposure.
Barriers to action
Possible adverse
impacts of the action
Action start date
C5.3.
TBC
Action due date
C5.3.
TBC
C5.4.
TBC
C5.4.
TBC
C5.5.
TBC
C5.5.
TBC
Monitoring and
C5.3.
TBC
reporting on
C5.4.
TBC
progress
C5.5.
TBC
Adaptation Action Plan – Green Spaces and Biodiversity
December 2009
Green Spaces and Biodiversity
Risk Area: Water Resources
Adaptation
W5. Developers should, where feasible, design and install drought-
action
resistant landscaping schemes and ‘low water gardens’ in open spaces
that require minimal irrigation. Open Spaces should investigate
opportunities to improve water efficiency and ensure that drought-
tolerant species are planted in appropriate places.
Lead department
Planning
: W5.6)
Other
Town Clerk’s (Sustainability
(and individual)
Planning (W5.7),
departments /
Unit:
responsible
partners
Economic Development Office (CPAT: involved
W5.8),
Open Spaces (W5.9)
Actions completed
W5.1
The LDF draft core strategy policy on Open Spaces and Trees includes the
to date
requirement that the design and management of open spaces is
environmentally sustainable and take account of the effects of climate change.
This document will be subject to external consultation and examination in public
prior to expected adoption in 2011.
W5.2
All new City of London gardens are fitted with water-efficient irrigation systems.
For example, in the City the use of container planting is minimised in order to
allow natural drainage and to minimise the artificial watering required.
However, old systems are not efficient and Open Spaces department is
seeking a more sustainable irrigation system.
W5.3
Open Spaces are beginning to favour drought-tolerant species already present
‘on site’ so that they have stock to replace less drought tolerant trees if they go
into decline as a result of decreasing precipitation. This applies to maiden trees
as well as new pollards.
W5.4
West Ham Park nursery grows over 250,000 bedding plants in a planting
medium that has reduced need for watering by 50%. The nursery also provides
its clients with drought-tolerant plants. All hanging baskets on buildings in the
Park are automatically irrigated during the coolest parts of the day (early
mornings and late evenings). All watering in the Park also takes place during
the morning and again where required in the evening. The Park is currently
investigating automatic irrigation for its formal gardens. (Open Spaces)
W5.5
Open Spaces are currently working on a report on ‘Climate change in Burnham
Beeches’, which will provide more information on how to manage existing
environments in the face of climate change. The outcomes of this report will
influence the next generation of site management plans.
Actions to be taken
W5.6
Planning to identify what the latest requirements are on the amount of detail
next
required from developers when they are installing drought-resistant
landscapes.
Adaptation Action Plan – Green Spaces and Biodiversity
December 2009
W5.7
Planning to ask developers to put together a case study on what they are
doing with respect to drought-tolerant landscaping schemes. The CoL
Sustainability Team to compile a folder of these case studies that can be
promoted to the City Environmental Forum and put on the website to
communicate best practice.
W5.8
CPAT and City Environmental Forum should be involved in communicating and
promoting to developers the Sustainable City awards and their benefits where
feasible (in particular Sustainable Building category) where feasible, as an
incentive for better monitoring of drought-resistant gardens.
W5.9
Open Spaces to communicate the results of the 'Sustainability Audit System'
currently underway by Open Spaces to other departments when it is piloted in
2010.
Barriers to action
There is no active monitoring system in place at the moment to ensure that developers follow
the requirements listed under #1, due to lack of resources in Planning.
Possible adverse
Drought resistant species are not always the prettiest, or the most appropriate, so sometimes
impacts of the
irrigation will be needed to maintain landscaping in high-value open spaces within the City.
action
Action start date
W5.6
TBC
Action due date W5.6 TBC
W5.7
September 2010
W5.7 ongoing
W5.8
September 2010
W5.8 November 2010
W5.9
May 2010
W5.9 March 2011
Monitoring and
W5.6
TBC
reporting on
W5.7
Availability of case studies
progress
W5.8
Dissemination of relevant communication materials
W5.9
Report to Chief Officers’ Sustainability Working Group
Adaptation
W6. Ensure that water quality is monitored and maintained in water
action
bodies. Use ‘bio-bombs’ or barley straw when needed to absorb
nutrients and prevent algal blooms.
Lead department
Open Spaces (W6.5, W6.6, W6.7)
Other
(and individual)
departments /
responsible
partners
involved
Actions completed
W6.1
Sophisticated management and monitoring of water bodies is in place, for
to date
example at the Barbican Lakes and on Hampstead Heath, building up expertise
in various technical solutions.
W6.2
Barley straw has been used as a means of reducing algae growth in several of
the water bodies on Epping Forest. Approximately 500 bales of straw have
been used over the last two years.
W6.3
Barley straw and 'bio-bombs' (bio-remediation treatment packs) are already in
use within the CoL open spaces. They are found to be most effective when
combined with 'Aqua Blue Dye' which helps filter certain wavelengths of
sunlight thus further enhancing its effects.
W6.4
At Hampstead Heath, Open Spaces have trialled the use of barley straw on
blue-green algae scums on the worst affected ponds, a scheme developed
Adaptation Action Plan – Green Spaces and Biodiversity
December 2009
following the advice of researchers at the Centre for Aquatic Plant
Management, who suggest that the Heath scheme is the biggest in the country.
In 2006 and 2007 the Men's Bathing Pond did not need to be closed due to
toxic blue-green algae scums for the first time in 6 years. Hampstead's
experience will help to inform other open spaces should they also experience
problems with blue-green algae.
Actions to be taken
next
W6.5
Open Spaces to promote Whitestone Pond in Hampstead Heath as an
example of good water quality management.
W6.6
Open Spaces to engage with neighbouring local planning authorities to ensure
that developments around CoL water bodies in neighbouring communities are
being protected in order to make sure they are not affecting water quality for
CoL, and
vice versa.
W6.7
Open Spaces to identify resources and prioritise hydrological studies - to
include water quality assessments across the Open Spaces.
Barriers to action
Possible adverse
impacts of the action
Action start date
W6.5
TBC
Action due date
W6.5
TBC
W6.6
TBC
W6.6
TBC
W6.7
TBC
W6.7
TBC
Monitoring and
W6.5
TBC
reporting on
W6.6
TBC
progress
W6.7
TBC
Adaptation Action Plan – Green Spaces and Biodiversity
December 2009
Risk Area: Heatwaves
Adaptation
H6. Open Spaces to work with the Emergency Services to undertake an
action
analysis of the relationship between weather conditions and fire risk in
open spaces.
Lead department
Open Spaces (
: H6.3, H6.4)
Other
(and individual)
departments /
responsible
partners
involved
Actions completed
H6.1
In light of the fact that Stoke Common will be increasingly at risk from fire if
to date
the predicted climate changes occur in the Southeast of England, Open
Spaces are already working very closely with the Fire Brigade and Police to
ensure that they have a workable fire plan that ensures speedy and effective
response to minimise harm to the site and its visitors.
H6.2
Open Spaces have worked with the Fire Brigade to provide electronic maps of
Epping Forest with all access points referenced and all barrier gates marked
to ensure efficient response to fires. Forest Keepers have limited fire fighting
facilities but have a good liaison with all local Fire Brigade and all relevant risk
assessments include heat wave factors.
Actions to be taken (Successful delivery of these actions involves two stages: getting a predictive tool for forest
next
fires and using this tool to change behaviour. Only the first stage is described here.)
H6.3
Open Spaces
) to develop and implement a fire risk
management plan across the Open Spaces, possibly emulating the system
used in the Peak District.
H6.4
Open Spaces
to initiate a student project to compare records
of small fires on CoL estates with the UKCP09 5km baseline climatological
dataset, to investigate correlations between weather fire outbreaks and to
identify ‘hotspots’. This can then be developed into a management tool,
whereby weather conditions predisposing high risk of fire are identified in
advance.
Barriers to action
Possible adverse
impacts of the
action
Action start date
H6.3
April 2010
Action due date
H6.3
March 2011
H6.4
April 2011
H6.4
TBC
Monitoring and
H6.3
Availability of management plan
reporting on
H6.4
Availability of management tool for implementation across CoL Open Spaces
progress
Adaptation
H7. City of London should ensure that where possible, enhancements
action
to biodiversity include increased planting for shade in open spaces.
Lead department
Planning
Other
Open Spaces
(and individual)
departments /
responsible
partners
involved
Adaptation Action Plan – Green Spaces and Biodiversity
December 2009
Actions completed to
H7.1
The LDF draft core strategy policies on Open Spaces and Biodiversity include
date
requirements to enhance biodiversity. This document will be subject to
external consultation and examination in public prior to expected adoption in
2011.
Actions to be taken
H7.2
Complete – no further action
Due dates
next
required
Barriers to action
Possible adverse
impacts of the action
Action start date
Action due date
Monitoring and
reporting on progress
Adaptation Action Plan – Green Spaces and Biodiversity
December 2009
Risk Area: Subsidence and Heave
Adaptation
S2. When designing landscaping, City of London and
action
developers should choose the types and locations of trees
carefully, considering how subsidence and root penetration
will be affected by climate change.
Lead department
Open Spaces (
: S2.2,
Other
DES
(and individual)
S2.3)
departments /
responsible
Planning Department (S2.1, S2.3)
partners
involved
Actions completed to
S2.1
Open Spaces, along with other departments such as Planning, currently has
date
developed a Tree Strategy scoping document for the City that follows the
Mayor of London’s tree strategy. This needs to be developed further but needs
more funding.
Actions to be taken
S2.2
Open Spaces and
Planning to complete the Tree Strategy and present it to
next
the Sustainability Members’ Working Group for their feedback.
S2.3
Open Spaces and
Planning to implement the tree strategy.
Barriers to action
Funding for completing and implementing the complete Tree Strategy are not guaranteed.
Approximately £27,000 are needed.
Possible adverse
impacts of the action
Action start date
S2.2 December 2012.
Action due date S2.2 December 2013
S2.3 January 2014
S2.3 N/A
Monitoring and
S2.2 Availability of strategy
reporting on progress
S2.3 TBC
Adaptation Action Plan – Green Spaces and Biodiversity
December 2009
Risk Area: Cross-cutting Issues
Adaptation
C6. Monitor climate change impacts on biodiversity and link in to
action
research on the issue.
Lead department
Open Spaces (C6.3, C6.4, C5.6)
Other
Planning
(and individual)
departments /
responsible
partners
involved
Actions completed
C6.1
CoL is hosting a London Climate Change Partnership event discussing
to date
adaptation issues related to biodiversity.
C6.2
Planning are reviewing the last draft of their biodiversity action plan and are still
debating what to monitor (Open Spaces can assist if needed).
Actions to be taken
C6.3
Open Spaces to continue biodiversity monitoring on CoL estates to identify any
next
climate-related risks as and when they arise (C6.3).
C6.4
Open Spaces to continue management actions (e.g. managing wetlands) to
ensure that habitats are as resilient as possible and update management plans
so that they reflect changes as and when they arise.
C6.5
Open Spaces to keep GLA up to date on findings of the above through reporting
at appropriate intervals.
Barriers to action
Possible adverse
impacts of the
action
Action start date
C6.3
Annually
Action due
C6.4
Annually
C6.4
Annually
date
C6.5
Annually
C6.3
Periodically
C6.5
Periodically
Monitoring and
C6.3
As appropriate
reporting on
C6.4
Management plans
progress
C6.5
TBC
Adaptation Action Plan – Environmental and Public Health
December 2009
Environmental and Public Health
Risk Area: Flooding
Adaptation
F3. Assess the capacity of the 72km of sewers managed by the City of
action
London Corporation to cope with increasing rainfall due to climate
change and coordinate with Thames Tideway Tunnel project to
manage the risks
Lead department
DES (
: F3.3, F3.4)
Other
Planning, City Surveyors,
(and individual)
departments /
Camden Borough Council,
responsible
partners
possibly Thames Water
involved
Actions completed
F3.1
The Strategic Flood Risk Assessment has identified areas of the City
to date
susceptible to sewer flooding (see Action F2).
F3.2
The Flood and Water Management Bill will bring in a requirement for local
authorities to take a leadership role with respect to surface water drainage. This
role is likely to be co-ordinated by Environmental Services for the City of
London
Actions to be taken
F3.3
DES to prepare a Surface Water Management Plan working with Camden
next
Borough Council.
F3.4
DES to work jointly to facilitate implementation of the Thames Tideway Tunnel
project led by Thames Water (construction due to begin in 2012) to address
problems associated with occasional untreated sewer overflows into the river.
Barriers to action
Possible adverse
impacts of the action
Action start date
F3.3
TBC
Action due date F3.3 TBC
F3.4
TBC
F3.4 TBC
Monitoring and
F3.3
Availability of management plan
reporting on
F3.4
TBC
progress
Adaptation
F7. Improve monitoring and recording of gully overflows linked to
action
heavy rainfall events
Lead department
DES (
F7.2, F7.3)
Other
(and individual)
departments /
responsible
partners
involved
Actions completed
F7.1
Gullies have gone from being cleaned by DES every 3 months to being
to date
cleaned every 6 months due to budgetary issues. (Larger gullies with more
debris in them, however, are cleaned more often). There is anecdotal evidence
that extreme weather events are occurring more frequently: e.g. the event
previously understood to be a ‘1 in 50 year’ rainfall event seems to be
happening every few years now.
Adaptation Action Plan – Environmental and Public Health
December 2009
Actions to be taken
F7.2
DES to improve monitoring and recording of gully overflows and relate these
next
back to the rainfall data that caused the overflow, so as to keep track of how
frequently heavy rainfall events occur and to understand what rainfall intensity
causes overflowing gullies. This is not being recorded at the moment. This will
help to identify gullies that are most susceptible to overflow and which should
be considered for upgrading.
F7.3
DES (District Surveyors) to write to DCLG and British Standards to request that
they take into account projections of changes in extreme rainfall (e.g. from
UKCP09 projections) and update standards accordingly.
Barriers to action
The risk of reduced service provision due to budgetary constraints might pose a problem
as budgetary planning only looks 6 months to 1 year ahead. This means it is imperative
to communicate the risks that climate change poses.
Possible adverse
impacts of the action
Action start date
F7.2
TBC
Action due date
F7.2
ongoing
F7.3
TBC
F7.3
TBC
Monitoring and
F7.2
Availability of monitoring data
reporting on
F7.3
Outcome of communication
progress
Adaptation Action Plan – Environmental and Public Health
December 2009
Risk Area: Heatwaves and Air Pollution
Adaptation
H8. Work with strategic health authorities and primary care trusts to
action
implement the local heatwave plan in the City and to include actions to
manage air pollution health risks in these plans, as high air pollution
levels often coincide with heatwaves.
Lead department
DCCS (H8.4),
Other
(and individual)
DES (H8.5, H8.6),
departments /
responsible
partners
Town Clerk’s (Contingency Planning
involved
Team: H8.7)
Actions completed
H8.1
CoL (Town Clerk’s) operates the National Heatwave Plan, which is triggered by
to date
a government signal when temperatures cross a certain threshold. It was
triggered for 3 days at Level 2 in summer 2009 and worked very well.
H8.2
The City (DES) has completed a computer modelling exercise to establish the
potential impact on a change in climate on the air quality in the City. Overall,
pollution levels are predicted to increase, but not by a significant margin.
According to this research, pollution incidents (days of high pollution that are
linked to the weather) are likely to decline during winter months but are likely to
increase during the summer.
H8.3
The City (DES) currently operates a free pollution alert system known as
AirText. Vulnerable people, those with asthma or heart related health problems,
are invited to register for the service. They are notified by text message, voice
message or email if the pollution levels are predicted to be high the following
day. As a result, service users have the information to manage any potential
symptoms that may be caused by poor air quality. This service has not been
extended to cover GPs and hospitals yet. The service is currently funded by the
European Space Agency but the funding is due to expire soon.
Actions to be taken
H8.4
DCCS to ask the PCT if they have notified their GPs about the
AirText scheme,
next
and discuss further promoting this scheme through GPs.
H8.5
DES to identify what the current status of funding for
AirText is and whether
there is any S106 money that can be used for continuing
AirText after ESA
funding runs out.
H8.6
DES to find out whether other boroughs where CoL has residents or assets are
part of the
AirText scheme.
H8.7
To build awareness of the growing risk of heatwaves and of the need for
increased resources to cope with these,
Town Clerk’s (Contingency
Planning) to ask ambulance services if they have correlated the number of
calls they receive with extreme heatwaves.
Barriers to action
Possible adverse
impacts of the action
Action start date
H8.4
April 2010
Action due date
H8.4
March 2011
H8.5
TBC
H8.5
TBC
Adaptation Action Plan – Environmental and Public Health
December 2009
H8.6
TBC
H8.6
TBC
H8.7
TBC
H8.7
TBC
Monitoring and
H8.4
TBC
reporting on
H8.5
TBC
progress
H8.6
TBC
H8.7
Availability of data
Adaptation
H9. In partnership with other organisations CoL should examine the
action
provision of ‘cool’ centres (cooled public buildings) during heatwaves,
with extended opening hours for vulnerable people, and should
include them in emergency plans.
Lead department
DES (H9.2, H9.3, H9.4, H9.5, H9.6),
Other
DCCS
(and individual)
Town Clerk’s (Contingency Planning
departments /
responsible
Team,
H9.7)
partners
involved
Town Clerk’s (Sustainability Unit: H9.3,
H9.4 and H9.7)
Actions completed
H9.1
A list of vulnerable people is held by Social Care. The list is also supplied to PCT.
to date
Social Care ensures that all these clients are visited daily to ensure their welfare. They
are also supplied with a leaflet giving advice on ‘Looking after yourself in hot weather’.
Actions to be taken
H9.2
DES to work towards introducing more public health representation on the
next
Health Scrutiny Board by Environmental Services.
H9.3
Town Clerk’s (Sustainability Unit) to lead a working group that identifies a
cluster of ‘cool spots’ (i.e. public places that remain relatively cool due to their
construction or air conditioning) within the City that could provide residents,
visitors and workers with cool havens on hot days. Ideas for cool spots include
churches and the Barbican Centre.
H9.4
Town Clerk’s (Sustainability Unit) to lead a working group that negotiates with
the London Diocese to allow open access to churches during the day.
H9.5
Town Clerk’s (Sustainability Unit) to lead a working group that develops and
widely distributes a map for residents, visitors and workers identifying the ‘cool
spots’.
H9.6
Contingency Planning
) and
Town Clerk’s (Sustainability
Unit) to lead a working group that develops an internal plan to promote the ‘cool
spots’ on the CoL website.
Barriers to action
Lots of churches that could be used as public ‘cool spots’ are not open during the day.
Possible adverse
impacts of the action
Action start date
H9.2
TBC
Action
H9.2
TBC
H9.3
TBC
completion date
H9.3
TBC
H9.4
TBC
H9.4
TBC
H9.5
TBC
H9.5
TBC
H9.6
TBC
H9.6
TBC
H9.7
TBC
H9.7
TBC
Monitoring and
H9.2
TBC
reporting on
H9.3
TBC
Adaptation Action Plan – Environmental and Public Health
December 2009
progress
H9.4
TBC
H9.5
TBC
H9.6
TBC
H9.7
TBC
Adaptation
H10. Build awareness among workers and residents of greater potential
action
for noise due to more use of outdoor space.
Lead department
DCCS (Housing Services
:
Other
(and individual)
H10.1, H10.2, H10.3)
departments /
responsible
partners
involved
Actions completed
H10.1
DCCS (Housing Services) provides information on noise nuisance in tenant
to date
handbooks
Actions to be taken
H10.2
DCCS (Housing Services) and DES to create codes of practice for general
next
noise issues to highlight what people should expect from the general
environment in order to reduce number of complaints DES are receiving. Look
at emulating codes that have already been drawn up regarding noise from
construction works. DCCS to arrange for the information to be circulated.
H10.3
DCCS (Housing Services) to consider educating workers and residents about
the need to keep windows closed in warm weather if they have double or triple
glazing, which will also help with noise impacts.
H10.4
DES to continue working on ‘Quiet City’ project which aims to identify and
improve those open spaces that have the potential of providing more respite to
people e.g. design measures in such way as to increase soundproofing in some
areas such as playgrounds. Link in climate change impacts to noise issues (i.e.
greater use of outdoor space during heatwaves) as a supporting aspect.
Barriers to action
Possible budgetary or planning constraints, especially when fitting double or triple glazing
onto a heritage site. It is unlikely residents will get any funding from CoL or central
government, therefore residents would need to be ready to pay for these improvements.
Possible adverse
impacts of the
action
Action start date
H10.2
2011
Action due date
H10.2 TBC
H10.3
As and when necessary
H10.3 N/A
H10.4
N/A
H10.4 TBC
Monitoring and
H10.2
Code of practice
reporting on
H10.3
Communication materials
progress
H10.4
Quiet City project documentation
Adaptation
H11. CoL to ensure that impacts of higher temperatures on food safety
action
and associated cooling requirements are addressed.
Lead department
Town Clerk’s (H11.1), Markets, DES (Port Other
(and individual)
Health Authority: H11.2)
departments /
responsible
partners
involved
Actions completed
Adaptation Action Plan – Environmental and Public Health
December 2009
to date
Actions to be taken
H11.1
Town Clerk’s to write to DECC to flag up the issues of setting parameters for
next
energy efficiency in the light of the impacts of higher temperatures on markets
and food safety / food spoilage leading to increased cooling requirements. Ask
DECC whether national standards are addressing these issues adequately.
Barriers to action
Possible adverse
impacts of the
action
Action start date
H11.1
TBC
Action
H11.1 TBC
completion
date
Monitoring and
H11.1
TBC
reporting on
progress
Adaptation
H12. Investigate opportunities to reduce health impacts from air
action
pollution and particulates during heatwaves using greywater or
groundwater from boreholes.
Lead department
DES (
:
Other
(and individual)
H12.1, H12.2)
departments /
responsible
partners
involved
Actions completed
to date
Actions to be taken
H12.1
DES to investigate what boreholes could be available for use in the City and
next
confirm if they can get the water from boreholes into vehicles.
H12.2
DES to clarify with the company that runs and/or owns the borehole needed
whether they would want to charge CoL for using it, and how much.
Barriers to action
Possible costs from using borehole and transporting water.
Possible adverse
impacts of the
action
Action start date
H12.1
2011/12
Action due
H12.1 TBC
H12.2
TBC
date
H12.2 TBC
Monitoring and
H12.1
TBC
reporting on
H12.2
TBC
progress
Adaptation Action Plan – Environmental and Public Health
December 2009
Risk Area: Cross-cutting issues
Adaptation
C7. Ensure that resourcing and delivery of waste
action
management services is appropriate to cope with the added
threats from climate change.
Lead department
DES (
Other
(and individual)
: C7.2, C7.3, C7.4, C7.5,
departments /
responsible
C7.7),
partners
Town Clerk’s (C7.3, C7.6)
involved
Actions completed to
C7.1
DES have a business continuity plan and contingency plan for waste
date
collection. However, issues may also arise from staff not being able to follow
their regular work patterns (e.g. due to extreme heat).
Actions to be taken
C7.2
DES and
Town Clerk’s to identify the appropriate budget holder at CoL and
next
communicate concerns about the budgetary restrictions around waste
management in the light of additional risks posed by climate change,
especially in summer heatwaves, to ensure that collection frequency is not
reduced to levels where public health is threatened.
C7.3
DES to make more space for food waste and integrate waste storage into long
term planning considerations.
C7.4
DES to instruct residents to include food waste along with normal waste if food
collection points are overflowing to make sure it is all collected, especially in
times of hot weather.
C7.5
Town Clerk’s to respond to the GLA waste strategy consultation and voice
the concerns raised in this adaptation action plan, and also encourage them to
aim for a high level waste management strategy rather than just a municipal-
level one.
C7.6
DES to identify whether there are any funding possibilities to build more waste
storage space for small businesses.
Barriers to action
The risk of reduced service provision due to budgetary constraints might pose a problem as
budgetary planning only looks 6 months to 1 year ahead. This means it is imperative to
communicate the risks climate change poses and ensure waste collection frequency is not
reduced too much.
Possible adverse
impacts of the action
Action start date
C7.2
TBC
Action due date
C7.2
TBC
C7.3
TBC
C7.3
TBC
C7.4
TBC
C7.4
TBC
C7.5
TBC
C7.5
TBC
C7.6
TBC
C7.6
TBC
C7.7
TBC
C7.7
TBC
Monitoring and
C7.2
TBC
reporting on progress
C7.3
TBC
C7.4
TBC
C7.5
TBC
C7.6
TBC
Adaptation Action Plan – Environmental and Public Health
December 2009
C7.7
TBC
Adaptation Action Plan – Contingency Planning
December 2009
Contingency Planning
Risk Area: Flooding
Adaptation
F8. Contingency Planning Dept should encourage businesses to
action
consider relocating flood-sensitive equipment (e.g. IT equipment, data
centres) and archives out of London to areas with negligible flood risks.
Contingency Planning Dept should encourage businesses with assets
(e.g. back-up power generators) and equipment (e.g. IT equipment,
data centres) that need to be on-site, to move them away from
locations at higher risk of flooding, such as basements.
Lead department (and Town Clerk’s (Contingency Planning,
Other
individual) responsible
F8.5),
departments /
Planning (F8.6),
partners
involved
CELT (F8.7),
DES (
: F8.8),
Actions completed to
F8.1
Planning
has produced a Strategic Flood Risk Assessment (SFRA),
date
which has identified parts of the City that have had problems with flooding in the past,
such as Blackfriars and Smithfield’s. Development proposals in flood risk zones must
be accompanied by a flood risk assessment which will address these issues for
new
developments, and the development control process does not permit vulnerable
developments in flood risk areas.
F8.2
In the light of the City of London Strategic Flood Risk Assessment and the interim
conclusions of the Pitt Review of the 2007 floods, the decision was made to review
existing contingency planning for flooding in the City. This review has taken into
account future flood risks in the light of climate change and the implications of both
‘flash’ flooding and possible tidal flooding. It incorporates pan-London flood planning
undertaken on behalf of the London Regional Resilience Forum. The consideration of
the London-wide response to flooding incidents is important, because flooding in other
parts of London may have serious implications for resilience and business continuity in
the City.
F8.3
Planning have also prepared a more detailed map of surface water flooding
risk than the one provided by the SFRA that only broadly mapped surface flood
risk by postcode. This map shows more differentiated surface flooding risk
within postcodes.
F8.4
Hodge Street Police have moved their IT equipment from their basement, in
response to risks from burst water pipes or blocked drains.
Actions to be taken
F8.5
Town Clerk’s (Contingency Planning,
to distribute more detailed
next
map of surface water flood risk at sub-postcode scale to those businesses that are
shown to be at risk, and to put the map on its website.
F8.6
It should be ensured that the
Planning department highlights the issue of flooding
risks to sensitive assets and equipment located in basements to building occupants.
F8.7
CELT to raise the issue of contingency planning for power (i.e. how to generate
standby power if your back-up generator is in the basement) with businesses in flood
risk areas.
Adaptation Action Plan – Contingency Planning
December 2009
Risk Area: Water Resources
Adaptation W7. Contingency Planning to work with Thames Water Utilities
action
to discuss contingency planning for vital City functions in times
of extreme drought.
Lead department Town Clerk’s (Contingency Planning,
W7.4)
Other departments / Economic
(and individual)
partners involved
Department
responsible
Office (CPAT)
Actions
W7.1
CPAT has had regular dialogue with Thames Water on the general supply side which in
completed to date
part relates to future needs, and which also covers increasing capacity to protect against
such a scenario.
W7.2
Contingency Planning complies with / works to the National Drought Plan that is triggered
by the government in times of drought. This is seen as being sufficient to handle situations
of extreme drought for the City of London.
The ‘Mind your own business’ campaign was launched in 2009 to assist London’s small businesses
in developing business continuity plans.
(http://www.cityoflondon.gov.uk/Corporation/media centre/files2009/Small+Busine
sses+urged+to+Mind+Your+Own+Business.htm).
Actions to be
F9.5
Town Clerk’s (Contingency Planning) to look into getting a representative of CPAT
taken next
into CELT.
F9.6
Barriers to action
Possible adverse
impacts of the
action
Action start date
W7.4 TBC
Action due date
W7.4 TBC
Monitoring and
W7.4 TBC
reporting on
progress
Adaptation Action Plan – Appendix
December 2009
Appendix – Responsibilities for Delivery
This Action Plan identifies the following Departments, sections and individuals as responsible for delivery of the actions:
Department
Section / Team
Individual
Actions