Reading Lib Dem Councillor Welcomes Climate Response — But Presses for Firm Commitments

A Reading Liberal Democrat Councillor has welcomed a detailed response from the Council's Lead Councillor for Climate Strategy and Transport to questions about Reading's climate preparedness — but says the response leaves key commitments still outstanding.

Councillor James Moore, who represents Tilehurst Ward, submitted a six-part question to full Council following the Council's own screening of the National Emergency Briefing, a presentation by ten of the UK's leading climate scientists and experts.

Cllr Moore said: "I'm grateful for a thorough written response, and there is genuinely good news in it. Reading's flood and drainage investment is being modelled against 2050 climate projections, cascading flood events have been formally tested through Exercise Blue Nimbus, and work is underway to develop a more comprehensive approach to building resilience.

"But the response also reveals gaps that need addressing. The Council acknowledges it has not yet formally assessed Reading's adaptation performance against the Climate Change Committee's local authority framework — and has not committed to a timeline for doing so. The Council also acknowledges there is no statutory duty to do this work, but equally recognises its importance.

"With 40°C temperatures hitting Reading recently — as University of Reading scientists warned — and 1 in 4 homes nationally facing flood risk by 2050, the importance of this work couldn't be clearer. Recognising its importance is not enough. We need a timeline and a public commitment."

Cllr Moore submitted a supplementary question asking the Council to commit to a timeline for assessing Reading against the CCC's local authority framework, and will receive a written response.