These five policy proposals are intended to be the headline asks of the Westminster government. They are designed to help drive climate resilience higher up the political agenda and to offer direction for the big decisions ahead for the new Labour Government on planning reform, new building standards, and protecting existing buildings. These recommendations will also form the headlines of the full policy recommendations report to be launched alongside the main Climate Resilience Roadmap in the spring.

Make climate safety a national priority under the leadership of the Prime Minister

Create a new Office of Climate and Nature Action within the Cabinet Office under the leadership of the Prime Minister to drive cross-government and UK-wide efforts.

Ensure all planning decisions deliver climate safety

Update the English planning system with a new legal objective to deliver on the climate adaptation goals outlined in the Climate Change Act. This should be mirrored in the devolved administrations.

Protect all communities with trees, parks and ponds

Update Local Plans so every area has targets and strategies to protect communities from flooding and overheating.

Ensure new buildings are fit for a more hazardous climate future

Introduce a follow-on Homes and Buildings Standard by 2028 with new regulations to protect against increasing climate hazards, particularly overheating, flooding and water scarcity.

Make existing homes and buildings climate safe

Include climate resilience as part of a 10-year national retrofit strategy, including government investment and regulation and incentives to mobilise private investment.

Download the full policy recommendations here