Gorran Haven residents show commitment to environmental issues

2.00.00pm GMT Tue 20th Jun 2006

Residents of Gorran Haven have responded positively to an environmental survey carried out by the Liberal Democrats in May 2006.

The LibDems distributed survey forms to over 350 residents in Gorran Haven asking them their views on issues such as waste, recycling, transport, energy and international issues. A creditable 23% completed the survey and the results were illuminating.

7% of residents felt that there is a problem with graffiti, but 37% thought that there is a problem with litter in the village. About 90% of residents use the council's kerbside recycling scheme and recycle all types of materials.

The bus service to St Austell is used by 15% of residents whilst a larger proportion (31%) use the rail service from St Austell at times. A high proportion (85%) thought that the Newquay air services were good for Cornwall's economy; but 57% said that they thought they would have an adverse environmental impact. Two-thirds of residents (68%) think that, in the future, some restrictions may have to be placed on the use of motor cars. About half would like to see more spent on walking and cycling facilities.

On the question of power generation in Cornwall, only 12-21% would like to see an oil, gas or nuclear power station in the county. A significant majority would like to see alternative power generation capacity in Cornwall: land-based wind power is supported by 62%, offshore wind by 81%, wave/tidal by 80% and energy from waste by 84%. Food for thought!

Nearly a third of residents expressed an interest in receiving more information about saving energy in their homes or about renewable energy generation in the home.

On international issues, 74% of residents are not happy with either George Bush or Tony Blair when it comes to environmental issues.

Local councillors Phil Trevarton (Restormel) and Les Hunkin (Cornwall County) thank all those residents who responded and promise to take these views into account when environmental issues are decided on in the council chambers.