Uploaded on 2015-11-09 by AngelaOs

This showed the range of heat island effects (averaging 2.4°) and also the associated decreases in air and water quality. 2. Which are the main UHI effects that you can identify in your area? This is the UK national Heat Map showing my local area – the main heat spots are associated with residential uses, and occur both night and day - though there is also a central city heat spot related to commercial use. http://tools.decc.gov.uk/nationalheatmap/ I live in is small, historic, low rise, city with relatively wide streets, natural local materials (limestone) and with lots of green spaces and trees – but the topography – being situated in a valley on a river bend and surrounded by relatively steep hills (from what I have read) seems to amplify the heat effect – as does the fact that the city is built on natural hot water springs. In winter we get valley fog and clear hills due to temperature inversions which adds an interesting twist. There is a heat island effect – which can be a problem during a hot summer, in terms of heat affecting health, but also creates an extended growing season for parks and gardens and all the keen vegetable growers in the city. We can be 2 – 3 weeks ahead of the surrounding rural areas – very noticeable in terms of flowering fruit trees, and the Botanical Garden. 3. Which are the measures you would propose? I think t that in the case of this city the main proposal would be maintaining and extending the green spaces in the city, and using planning laws to insist on green areas in new developments, as well as limiting building density. Traffic control measures are constantly evolving – but will increasingly play a role in terms of air quality and pollutants in summer months. I would also harness the knowledge of the local University, where this particular problem is studied, and press for more local studies and monitoring to be carried out and made available to inform policy. I would ‘join up’ the work currently involved in several different departments and increase public awareness and engagement. 4. Is UHI effect concerning policy making in your area? Whilst there is little specific and direct policy on this issue within the city at council level – there is an awareness, and this is shown in documents and guidance issued but the council, and included in a number of separate departments – notable Environment, Planning, Health where specific points are made (this needs to be more joined up) I get the impression that the key points are covered by existing policy, and UHI is discussed and incorporated for instance in health planning, restrictions and conditions for new developments, and green space policy. http://www.bathnes.gov.uk/services/your-council-and-democracy/local-research-and-statistics/wiki/natural-environment - there are other references which can be found using the search function. ![Bath - Image from IGF.org.uk][1] ![Lansdown, Hills - Image from tripadvisor.com][2] [1]: https://edxuploads.s3.amazonaws.com/1447035119446984.png [2]: https://edxuploads.s3.amazonaws.com/14470353822179126.jpg