Ealing Borough Faces High Heat Vulnerability as Council Prepares Climate Resilience Plan
A West London borough is taking urgent action to address its vulnerability to intense heat, after being ranked among England's most at-risk areas from the impacts of climate change. Ealing Council is developing a comprehensive Climate Adaptation and Resilience Strategy, with publication expected in the coming weeks for public consultation.
Social Factors Drive Heat Risk in Priority Neighbourhoods
Research conducted by the University of Manchester has identified 79 "priority neighbourhoods for adaptation" within the borough of Ealing. These areas, including Acton, Southall and Northolt, are considered particularly exposed to even small increases in average temperatures.
The council's report emphasises that this vulnerability stems primarily from social factors rather than geographic ones. Areas with fewer green spaces, higher concentrations of high-rise buildings, and communities where residents may struggle financially to adapt to extreme heat face the greatest challenges.
Strategic Approach to Building Climate Resilience
The draft strategy aims to demonstrate how building climate resilience can simultaneously address social inequality within the borough. The council plans to finalise and launch the strategy in early 2026, with several key initiatives already outlined in council documents.
One significant challenge involves data centres within the borough, which currently consume 25 percent of Ealing's entire energy supply. This creates substantial pressure on the electrical grid as the borough works to electrify heating and transport systems.
Innovative Solutions for Energy and Housing
To address the energy consumption issue, the council proposes capturing waste heat generated by data centres to power district heating networks. This approach would provide low-carbon heating solutions for both residential and commercial properties throughout the borough.
New council-owned housing developments will be designed to meet 'passivhaus' certification standards, ensuring they remain cool during summer months and warm in winter. However, it remains unclear whether similar adaptation measures will apply to existing housing stock.
Green Infrastructure as Climate Mitigation
The council's planned 575-hectare regional park represents another key component of their climate adaptation approach. This green space is specifically intended to mitigate the "environmental vulnerability" identified in the University of Manchester research.
Park plans include a community-led rewilding project featuring beaver habitats and the planting of 10,000 trees, with particular focus on areas currently lacking adequate canopy cover.
Community Engagement and Consultation Process
Ealing Council is actively seeking community leaders and interested groups to participate in the upcoming public consultation on the new strategy. Council representatives hope this engagement will ensure the final strategy adequately reflects the needs of those most vulnerable to climate risks.
The consultation process represents a crucial opportunity for residents to shape how their borough responds to the growing challenges posed by climate change and increasing temperatures.
