(20) 1.  Introduction

(1) 1.1 This Supplementary Planning Document (SPD) expands upon policies DP11 (Drainage), DP12 (Energy Conservation) and DP13 (Renewable Energy Developments) of the Warwick District Local Plan (1996 – 2011).

(2) 1.2 These policies aim to encourage sustainable construction through the conservation and management of water resources, the efficient use of energy and the use of renewable sources of energy. This is in response to concern at all policy levels to address the causes of climate change by reducing carbon emissions. There is also the need to mitigate against the expected impacts of climate change such as the increased incidence of flooding and extreme temperature events. The Government regards climate change as the greatest long term challenge facing the world and has set a target of reducing UK carbon dioxide emissions by 60% by 2050

1.3 This document therefore provides guidance to developers and applicants on how to achieve sustainable buildings which take account of the following:

• The use of sustainable construction techniques and energy efficient layout and design such as passive solar gain.
• The Council’s requirement that 10% of the energy demand of new buildings should be met by renewable sources.
• The use of water conservation measures such as Sustainable Urban Drainage Systems (SUDS).

(1) 1.4 The requirements of this SPD should be applied to all new development, extensions, redevelopments and change of use unless otherwise stated.