Pat Thomas (Letters, March 6) asks why proposals for a £200,000 Renewable Energy Fund from the Green Party were rejected during Brighton and Hove's City Council's budget-setting process.

The Greens proposed this sum was to be raised by borrowing, which would have meant a reoccurring cost to local taxpayers.

This proposal was linked to another suggestion from the Greens, to downgrade the key post of Renewable Energy Officer just at the time the Government is to publish its micro-generation strategy.

This strategy will contain details of grants available for domestic renewables and the council's well-established Sustainability Commission will work to maximise the promotion and uptake of such grants across the city.

This focus on renewable energy is in addition to the environmental priorities contained in the council's new five-year Local Transport Plan, which invests nearly £30 million in sustainable transport measures, such as improvements to public transport, road safety and a focus on walking and cycling aimed at tackling congestion and improving air quality.

Strangely, the Green Party councillors on the Policy and Resources Committee refused to support these measures designed to improve safety and the quality of life for all residents and those who work here and visit our city.

-Councillor Gill Mitchell, Chair, Environment Committee