CORNWALL Council’s Liberal Democrats have made clear that the environment is a key priority after appointing two councillors to lead on the issue.

Edwina Hannaford, who was appointed leader of the group following the recent elections, has announced the first two appointments in her team.

Colin Martin will be the group’s spokesperson for climate emergency while Rob Nolan will be responsible for ecological emergency.

Cllr Hannaford was previously Cabinet member for climate change in the previous Lib Dem/Independent administration. The new Conservative Cabinet does not have a dedicated member for climate change and has included the responsibility with the Cabinet member for environment and public protection.

Cllr Hannford said: “We know that man-made emissions of greenhouse gases are causing the climate to change, but humans have seriously damaged our natural environment in other ways too. Reversing this damage will be a huge and complex challenge, so it is a real concern that the new Conservative Leader of the Council has made this a part-time job for a cabinet member who is also responsible for the Fire and Rescue Service, anti-social behaviour and restaurant food hygiene.”

The Lib Dem group leader said that it was also important that the council considers the social and environmental impacts of every decision.

She said: “The new leaders of the Council must show that they are balancing the needs of people and the planet in every decision they make.”

Mr Martin said that he would be challenging the council to set annual targets for insulating homes; replacing oil and gas boilers; and taking petrol and diesel cars off the road.

The Lostwithiel and Lanreath councillor said: “Most people tell me they want to cut their carbon emissions but the size of the challenge just feels overwhelming. Some aren’t sure where to begin and many simply don’t have the money to upgrade their home or buy a new car. My mission is to speak up for all the people in Cornwall who want to make a change but need some help to make it happen.”

Truro Boscawen and Redannick Mr Nolan will focus on calling on the council to support initiatives like tree planting and rewilding schemes while also giving the public a voice in setting the priorities for how our countryside is managed and funded.

He said: “Our natural world is being destroyed at an alarming rate. We all rely on nature; it sustains us, providing us with food and water. We will campaign for and take actions that help nature recover and protect habitats where wildlife can thrive.”