The Climate Change & Nature Recovery Service Transformation Committee met on Monday 7 September 2026 to discuss progress on the Resilient Swansea climate adaptation strategy and the designation of new Local Nature Reserves. The committee received updates on both initiatives, with no formal decisions made as both items were presented for information. The committee also noted its work plan for the upcoming year.

Resilient Swansea and Community Actions

The committee received an update on the Resilient Swansea – Climate Adaptation Strategy and the progress of its associated action plan for communities and businesses. The strategy, developed in alignment with the Welsh Government's Climate Adaptation Strategy for Wales 2024, aims to support decarbonisation and improve resilience to climate change. Key actions highlighted include the development of the Swansea Project Zero website, which serves as a central resource for residents and businesses seeking information on climate change and nature recovery. A community council toolkit for carbon management has also been developed and is currently being trialled.

The report detailed the creation of a Household Emergency Plan, developed in partnership with emergency services, to help residents understand risks such as flooding and heat. The committee was asked to consider how councillors could help promote the Swansea Project Zero website and the household emergency information to their constituents. Additionally, plans are underway to launch monthly Climate Cafes at Y Storfa, starting in October, with the first session focusing on energy management for households.

Councillor Chris Evans offered to include information about the Swansea Project Zero website in leaflets he was preparing for his constituents and expressed willingness to attend the climate cafes. Councillor Mair Baker suggested leaflet drops in local housing areas and the use of QR codes on posters in local shops to promote the initiative. Councillor Lesley Walton requested that information be circulated to other housing offices and all councillors for wider distribution. Jane Richmond, Strategic Climate Change Project Manager, confirmed that efforts were being made to create promotional materials and explore funding opportunities, including potential articles in housing magazines.

New Local Nature Reserves Designation Update

The committee was updated on the progress towards declaring 14 new Local Nature Reserves (LNRs) on council-owned land across Swansea. This initiative is a significant contribution to Swansea Council's Nature Recovery and Climate Change objectives, aligning with the Welsh Government's 30 by 30 commitment to protect 30% of land and sea for nature by 2030. The designation of these LNRs will provide formal recognition and protection for sites of local natural interest, supporting public enjoyment, education, and wellbeing.

Since the committee last considered the proposals in September 2025, a comprehensive programme of consultation has been completed, involving ward members, community engagement, and liaison with Natural Resources Wales (NRW). Over 1,000 people participated in the engagement process, with approximately 90% supporting the principle of LNR designation. Formal declaration is intended to be considered by Cabinet in January 2027, with all declarations completed by March 2027.

Mark Barber, Nature Recovery Team Leader and Principal Officer, explained that LNR designation establishes a long-term framework for nature recovery, with future delivery being phased and prioritised according to ecological need, funding, and community benefits. He noted that while the declaration itself does not create additional staffing or budget commitments, the pace of enhancement works will depend on available resources and external funding. Councillor Chris Evans expressed his satisfaction that two areas within his ward were included in the proposed LNRs and emphasised the importance of securing their designation before March.

Work Plan

The committee noted its work plan for the upcoming year. The next meeting, scheduled for 19 October 2026, will include discussions on the Local Nature Reserve Designations and the Events Strategy. Apologies were made for any confusion caused by errors in the originally circulated work plan.