Ashfield MP backs new thinking to help switch more homes to greener energy use

I asked for this meeting as several constituents had contacted me with regards to air quality and domestic fuel standards in Ashfield.

New regulations will see a phasing out of traditional house coal, end the supply of wet wood and introduce sulphur and smoke emissions.

I would like to emphasise that this is not about banning stoves or open fireplaces, and these policies do not seek to prevent their use or installation.

I also met with the Secretary of State for Business, Energy and Clean Growth to discuss how mines in Ashfield could be repurposed and the warm mine water that exists below ground pumped out and used to provide heat for homes and businesses in Ashfield.

A £7 million pilot project is already underway in South Tyneside which will see abandoned mines used to heat up to 1,500 new homes and a school.

After speaking with the Coal Authority and Government I am very keen to work with them alongside neighbouring MP’s to see if we can move this forward in this area if the Tyneside project is successful.

Sticking with the environment, I get lots of enquiries about Japanese Knotweed that can infect a large area very quickly causing damage and financial loss to home and business owners.

There is some good advice on the Ashfield District Council website which states you should aim to control this invasive non-native plant to prevent it becoming a problem in your neighbourhood.

Finally, a big shout out for the Riley Foundation in Underwood.

In just a few weeks we will see the opening of the Riley Foundation Visitors Centre in Underwood which will be kitted out with sensory play areas and be open to children from all over the country.

This new project has been made possible by the brilliant Dawn and Andy Justice from Underwood who have supported Mel and Mark from the Riley Foundation in securing and renovating their new centre.

I am so proud to call them my friends.

Lee Anderson is MP for Ashfield.