A CLIMATE adaptation plan for Minehead is being officially launched next week by Somerset Wildlife Trust and Minehead and Coast Development Trust.
A free event will take place in the Beach Hotel from 1pm to 4pm on Saturday, January 18, for which anybody who wants to attend will need to reserve a place online.
It will be attended by MP Rachel Gilmour, who wants to show her support for the ‘Act to Adapt’ plan, which brings together local ideas and solutions to protect the town and its wildlife and wellbeing.
The launch will offer a seed funding opportunity with groups able to apply for a share of a £1,000 funding pot to kickstart local projects.
A 25-minute film titled ‘Sea, Land, and City’ will be screened showing inspiring nature-based projects across the Westcountry.
There will also be opportunities to connect with local people and groups, including Minehead Rotary Club’s emergency action group.
A spokesperson said: “Discover how we can tackle the climate challenges facing Minehead, from flooding to heatwaves.
“Let us build a resilient future for Minehead together.
“What can we do together to ensure our town can thrive in a changing climate?”
Visitors will be able to enjoy free vegan treats and cakes while they read the climate adaptation plan and network with others in the local community.
The spokesperson said: “The climate emergency poses many threats to Minehead.
“Winters are becoming warmer and wetter, increasing flooding risks.
“Hotter and drier summers are increasing the risk of droughts, heatwaves and wildfires.
“Through collaborative events, residents have identified four key themes for how Minehead should adapt to the changing climate.”
The plan was drawn up after a climate action consultation fair held in the town last autumn with more than 20 local organisations manning stalls highlighting ways to address climate change and make a positive impact on the environment.
The four main themes of the plan, which will also track progress of any projects, are to improve and increase the town’s green spaces, reduce flooding risks with maintenance and management techniques, encourage community-driven climate action, and promote sustainable development.