Starting now – a ten-year plan for a cleaner, greener Thame by 2030

HEALTHIER  lifestyles, more green spaces and more connected communities – these are just some of the outcomes that the Thame Green Living Plan, launched today, is aiming to achieve for the community of Thame.

 Many individuals and local groups have played a part in the formulation of the GLP which was adopted unanimously by Thame Town Council in July 2020. The Green Living Plan is a ten-year plan  “.. to protect and enhance quality of life for everyone locally in the things that really matter – our air, our water, our overall well-being and the natural world that surrounds us.” 

Actions and projects

The plan recommends a series of actions and projects across five focus areas – green spaces and biodiversity, clean air, water, energy and waste, and includes actions that can be taken by individuals, businesses and community groups, plus longer-term infrastructure changes,  with the support of a new community organisation, proposed to be called Thame Green Living (TGL). 

Walking and cycling

One of the projects that is already getting off the ground is working with Thame Town Council to improve signage and information boards on existing – and new – walking and cycling routes around the town and extending this more widely. The aim is also to establish ‘walking buses’ to schools to help reduce air pollution and boost children’s health. 

Energy efiiciency

Another project being explored is how to help households improve their energy efficiency. TGL will be encouraging Thame homeowners to make use of the just launched Green Home Grants Scheme to help reduce household energy bills by for instance, improving insulation which can have a huge benefit for both the pocket and the environment. TGL are also looking to support a ‘Solar Streets’ project initiative in Thame very soon, working with a renewable energy supplier and installer, to offer residents solar PV panels at bulk buy prices.   

Get involved!

Charles Boundy, who led the development of the plan through RSA Thame Group, explained:  “This plan is just the start. Without everyone in Thame getting involved, it will remain simply a set of ideas on paper. But by working together we can make the changes we need. Whether you’re a resident, business, part of the council or community group, we’ve set out three easy steps that everyone can take straight away.”  

To discover more about the Green Living Plan, the Green Living Group behind it, and how to get involved, visit the website: http://www.thamegreenliving.org
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ThameGreenLiving/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thamegreenliving/
Contact: info@thamegreenliving.org.uk