Implementation

THE KEY OUTPUTS FOR THIS STAGE are systems for ensuring that the Action Plan(s) is / are implemented and refreshed. This includes launching the Action Plan(s), embedding the Plan(s) in council and partner policies and programmes, resourcing the Plan(s) and monitoring progress.

It is all too common for huge effort to be put into developing plans and strategies that are not properly implemented. The aim of this stage is to ensure that systems are established for implementing, monitoring and refreshing the Action Plan(s). Below we discuss some key features of implementation, but please modify these to suit your authority's circumstances.

Your council may already have well established project planning systems. If your existing systems already cover the guidance in this section, there is no need to replicate them.

Launch the Action Plan(s)
Embed the Action Plan(s)
Manage and monitor implementation
Monitor progress against the vision and strategy
Communicate progress
Refresh Action Plan(s)

1. Peterborough City Council launched its Climate Change Strategy at Peterborough's Key theatre. There was a special screening of Al Gore's film "An Inconvenient Truth" followed by a panel of local experts to answer questions.

2. Cambridgeshire County Council introduced cross cutting portfolios for Council Members in summer 2007. The lead Member for Environment and Community Services is responsible for integrating climate change and development into the council's activities. The Director of Environment and Regulation is the corporate climate change "lead".

3. Devon County Council's Making Devon Greener Programme Board, chaired by the Director of Environment, Economy & Culture has formal ownership of the Climate Change Strategy. There are quarterly progress reviews which are frequently attended by the Executive Member for the Environment and member champions for climate change, biodiversity and energy.

4. Stroud District Council contracted Severn Wye Energy Agency to deliver its Climate Change Programme.

5. Stockton Renaissance Partnership Board (the LSP) has integrated work on climate change into three of its thematic partnerships.