Moving towards net zero, creating more affordable housing and restoring faith in local government are top of the agenda for South Kesteven's newly-elected leader.

Having taken over following the local elections in May, Councillor Richard Cleaver has commended the efforts made by his colleagues so far.

Three months in to the position, he says one of his top priorities is ensuring there is enough affordable housing in the district.

He emphasised that the current cost of living crisis has amplified the urgent need for affordable housing.

"I will personally be lobbying very strongly that GP services are enhanced with this increasing population and that better rail and bus services are in place," Councillor Cleaver added.

Meanwhile, he acknowledges the significant responsibility of being a social housing landlord and remains steadfast in his commitment to ensuring residents have access to the highest quality accommodation possible.

To meet this growing demand, the council is committed to ensuring a sufficient number of affordable dwellings are included in new residential development plans.

At the same time, the representative for Stamford St. Johns ward is acutely aware of the need to achieve net zero emissions as soon as possible.

SKDC declared a climate emergency in 2019 and has set a target to reduce its carbon footprint by at least 30% by 2030, with an additional goal to strive for net-zero carbon emissions as soon as viable, but no later than 2050.

Solar farms – often seen as a double-edged sword due to their impact on farmland – are one method being pursued to achieve these goals.

Mallard Pass Slar Farm has been controversial. Image credit: SKDC.

"Nobody wants good farming land taken out of action, yet at the same time, reaching net zero is an incredibly important issue we can't sidestep," Councillor Cleaver said.

Although the local authority has formally objected to the controversial Mallard Pass Solar Farm, it is the Planning Inspectorate that will have the final say on whether the major development can go ahead.

"As an authority, we have put forward our views on Mallard Pass and I concur with what has been detailed in the Local Impact Report," he continued.

If the project is approved, the newly-elected leader suggests transporting the infrastructure by rail, citing both environmental benefits and potential traffic reduction.

"I would love for all the materials to be brought on-site by rail; this is much more carbon-neutral than having a fleet of trucks driving down the A1, especially considering the volume of materials that need to be transported if it does proceed," he added.

Since assuming office, Councillor Cleaver has been adamant about restoring faith in local government, insisting, "local democracy simply doesn't work without it."

He added: "I see this as part of a wider issue, as local councils we are community leaders and it is really important for us to take on that role.

"Building strong supporting communities is really important so that people have the confidence to face the uncertain future that we have going forward.

"Local government is not all about filling in potholes."