June 2015 Newsletter

A round up of news and views

Climate Lobby - A group of TM supporters went to the Climate Lobby on 17th June.  They had planned to discuss the government's 'green' policies with Claire Perry M.P. and present her with long chains of coloured flags. This bunting had been signed by hundreds of local people who wanted to express their desire for binding targets to reduce green house gas emissions, to be agreed at the United Nations Summit (COP21) in Paris in December. The lobbyists were extremely disappointed when they learned that Mrs Perry was too busy to meet with them, read more here...

Satellite Film Screening and live discussion, prior to COP21 - TM is teaming up with the Kennet Valley Arts Trust to show 'How to Change the World' on Wednesday 9th September.  This film unfolds as a hippie heist movie-turned-high sea adventure but remains an intimate portrait of the group’s original members and of activism itself—idealism vs. pragmatism, principle vs. compromise. They agreed that a handful of people could change the world; they just couldn’t agree how to do it. It will be followed by a live discussion (via satellite!) with the film’s director Jerry Rothwell, Vivienne Westwood and other special guests.  Please put this date on your calendar!

Permaculture Chickens - The latest session of the permaculture course was held at Ruth's house, where we discussed the advantages of keeping chickens, especially bantams, in the vegetable garden.  Although several participants already have small flocks of chickens they were not yet reaping all the benefits of this fascinating pastime, in terms of pest control and soil fertility improvement.  You can read more in the latest permaculture blog, here...  The next sessions will be on Natural Pest Management (4th July) and Bee-Keeping (18th July).  Please get in touch with us via permaculture@transitionmarlborough.org if you would like to join in a 'taster session'.

Neighbourhood Plan - Peter and Sam have volunteered to join the Neighbourhood Plan Support Group, which is working with Marlborough Town council to come up with a viable plan for the development of the town over the next 20 years.  Our major concerns are the poor air quality and traffic congestion in and around the town centre and the need for environmental protection.  This plan will take at least three years before it is finalised and there will be several public consultations along the way.  So watch this space!

Transition Streets - This an opportunity to join friends and neighbours in a drive to cut the cost of energy bills.  You'll get a free workbook which is packed full of handy tips and ways of getting government incentives, which could help you reduce the amount of energy you use, while still keeping warm during the cold winter months.  A new group is starting in Minal very soon.  Please contact Alexandra: streets@transitionmarlborough.org if you are interested.

Free Workshop on Renewable Heat & Energy - Saturday 22nd August at the National Self Build & Renovation Centre in Swindon, SN5 8UB.  Get the answers that the salesmen might not tell you on everything from heat pumps to solar panels; what’s new, what works and what are the practical issues that need to be considered when installing such renewable technologies, including who does what and how it all connects together. This is your opportunity to get the facts straight from the experts and hear what’s happening with government incentives around these products and services in terms of helping you understand the green investment opportunities they offer, as well as any financial implications you need to consider.

Next Hub Meeting - is on Thursday 9th July in the Green Dragon pub, at 8pm.  All welcome.

Thanks

The Transition Marlborough team